Bullying Hurts More Than Feelings: Why We Must Take It Seriously

theymatter4
Jul 24
3 min read

Meet Virginia Collage [Photo Credit: AASP THEY MATTER Founder] — *Meet Virginia* Collage [Photo Credit: AASP THEY MATTER Founder]

Disclaimer

The content provided on this website and blog is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, bullying, or a mental health crisis, please seek help from a qualified mental health professional or contact a crisis support service immediately.

Every day, countless children and teens walk into schools with a heavy burden—anxiety, fear, and the painful memory of being bullied. For some, it's a shove in the hallway. For others, it's a cruel message online, a whisper behind their back, or the deafening silence of being excluded. No matter the form, bullying leaves scars—and sometimes, those scars are invisible until it's too late.

The Truth About Bullying

Bullying is not "just a phase." It's not "kids being kids." It's a serious, intentional behavior that can destroy a child's sense of self-worth, safety, and belonging. The consequences are real and, in far too many cases, tragic.

Studies show that children who are bullied are more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression, academic struggles, and social isolation. And in heartbreaking cases, some young people see no way out and take their own lives.

We cannot afford to minimize, ignore, or excuse bullying.

The Role We All Play

Bullying thrives in silence. That’s why we must speak up—not just when it happens to us, but when we see it happening to others.

Parents need to talk regularly with their children about kindness, empathy, and what to do if they witness or experience bullying.
Educators must foster a culture of respect in classrooms, hallways, and online spaces.
Students must understand that their voice matters. Saying something, supporting a peer, or getting help isn’t tattling—it’s being brave.

And as a community, we must reinforce the message that bullying is never acceptable. That everyone deserves to feel safe. That cruelty should never go unchecked.

The Reality: Bullying Can Cost Lives

Every year, children and teens take their own lives because of bullying.They feel hopeless, humiliated, and alone.And too often, they suffer in silence.

🔹 Children who are bullied are 2 to 9 times more likely to consider suicide than their peers.

🔹 Bullying can lead to depression, anxiety, self-harm, academic struggles, and even substance abuse.

🔹 Cyberbullying, which follows kids home through phones and screens, can be especially isolating and relentless.

Let’s be clear: Bullying can kill.

And it must be taken seriously by all of us—parents, schools, communities, and students themselves.

What Parents Can Do

Talk openly with your child about bullying—whether they see it, experience it, or take part in it.
Watch for signs of distress: sudden mood changes, avoiding school, trouble sleeping, loss of interest in activities, or withdrawal.
Encourage empathy. Ask: “How do you think that person felt?” Help children see the human impact of their words and actions.
Model respect in your own interactions—what children witness, they often repeat.
Be a safe space. Let your child know you are always there to listen without judgment.

A Message to Every Child and Teen

You are not alone.
There is nothing wrong with you.
You are worthy of love and protection.
It’s okay to ask for help. Asking for help is not weakness—it’s strength.

Take the Pledge

Disclaimer

The content provided on this website and blog is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, bullying, or a mental health crisis, please seek help from a qualified mental health professional or contact a crisis support service immediately. If you, or someone you know is being bullied - please, don't wait. (The following link takes you outside of our website to a third party website)

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