Bullying


Things to consider if a young person you know is in need of help...
 
If a child or adolescent you know is struggling and has come to you for help, you can take steps to assist them achieving a healthy, happy outcome and lifestyle. Below are some important facts about bullying that can help you determine if they need a higher level of help.

  • Changes in sleep or appetite
  • School avoidance
  • Sudden changes in academic or social behaviors
  • Irritable
  • Unexplained injuries
  • Lost/destroyed clothing or belongings
  • “Somatic” (headaches or stomach aches) complaints
  • Faking illness
  • Negative self-talk
  • Statements of feeling helpless
  • Depressed
  • Suicidal

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  • Talk to the youth, and, ask them what is going on
  • Offer hope
  • Know the available resources
  • Call a crisis center, 911, or take the youth to your local emergency department
  • Encourage the teen to contact a supportive service like those listed below, this will provide a professional to talk with them while waiting for emergency services
  • Do NOT leave the child/teen alone

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Be assertive, stay calm, ask the bully to stop, tell an adult and keep telling adults if the bullying continues. Be a “stand by’er” to others being bullied instead of a “by stander”.

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Youth may need adult support in getting a break from what is happening online. Provide your child with some structure and limits to their social media time and pay attention to what they are doing online.

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  • Educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of bullying
  • Let your child know that you believe them
  • Listen to your child and try not to rush to action to “fix” it for them
  • Keep the lines of communication open and trust your instincts when something seems wrong
  • Work collaboratively with the school to remedy the situation

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