What is Bullying?

Bullying is when someone intentionally does or says something to hurt another person. This behaviour is often repetitive and deliberate. Bullying can take many forms such as:

  • Physical Bullying – Hitting, slapping, shoving, tripping, spitting, throwing objects, blocking someone’s path; damaging, stealing, or withholding someone’s property
  • Verbal Bullying – Insults, teasing, racist remarks, threats, hurtful jokes
  • Social Bullying – Excluding someone from an activity or group, ignoring someone, talking about someone negatively behind their back, or spreading rumours
  • Cyberbullying – Using technology such as cell phones and the internet to blackmail, threaten, intimidate, insult, spread rumours, post private/humiliating images or videos

Recognize the Signs

Warning signs that someone is being bullied can include:

  • Withdrawal from activities
  • Unexplained injuries
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Signs of depression or anxiety
  • Skipping school
  • Using substances (alcohol and/or drugs)
  • Aggressive and/or violent behaviour
  • Eating disorder symptoms/development
  • Negative thoughts and self talk
  • Mental – someone may be feeling upset, embarrassed, stupid, irritable, guilty, judged, lonely, untrusting, overwhelmed, nervous, anxious, afraid, or angry
  • Emotional – feeling ashamed or losing interest in the things you love
  • Physical – pain, decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping, stomach ache, headache

How can I support a friend who is being bullied?

  • Remind them that you’re there for them and you want to help
  • Be kind
  • Help them think through what they might say and to whom
  • Offer to go with them if they decide to report

If your friend still does not want to report the incident, support them in finding a trusted adult who can help them deal with the situation. Remember that in certain situations, the consequences of bullying can be life threatening.

  • Always let your parents know where you are going and when you will be home

  • Walk with a buddy or group of friends

  • Know your neighbourhood and safe places to go if you need help

  • Stay away from cars occupied by strangers. Do not approach a vehicle even if the occupant asks for help or directions.

  • Never flash money, bus passes, cell phones, cameras, or other possessions. Don’t tell people what you have in your locker.