Bullying impacts us all at some point in our lives, whether through personal involvement, the experience of a loved one, or witnessing this behavior. And while it’s most commonly associated with children and youth, bullying can happen at any stage of life. In recognition of Pink Shirt Day, which shines a light on the impacts of bullying and the importance of kindness, we’re sharing some signs of bullying and supports to help yourself or a loved one manage its harms and maintain mental health.
What is Bullying?
While it comes in many forms, bullying is a pattern of intentionally hurtful, targeted behavior and aggression toward someone. There’s also often a power imbalance involved, which is furthered by the intimidation and fear that this behavior instills in the target.
As mentioned, it’s more common in childhood and adolescence, with 71% of Canadian youth experiencing some form of bullying. The likelihood is even higher for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, those with a disability, or those who are a member of a visible minority group. People may face a range of different types depending on their situation or age. Aside from the verbal and physical forms commonly brought to mind by the word ‘bullying,’ additional types include:
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- Social bullying, which is aimed at harming relationships and a person’s reputation through means like exclusion and spreading rumors.
- Cyberbullying, which involves harassment through digital channels. It’s become prevalent among youth with ever-increasing time spent online and use of social media. The most harmful aspects of this type of bullying are the constant access to these digital channels and the potential to reach more people (participants or witnesses) than ‘traditional’ bullying.
- Workplace bullying is most commonly faced by adults. A Workplace Bullying Institute study found that 37% of workers have experienced it. This can include a variety of other bullying types but is specifically related to a working relationship and is often perpetrated by someone in a higher position of power than their target.
How Can I Tell if Someone is Being Bullied?
It can be difficult for a loved one to share what they’re going through—despite efforts to raise awareness and reduce stigma, individuals who undergo this harassment often feel embarrassed or ashamed. You might notice a change in overall mood, withdrawal or isolation from social situations, physical injuries or damage to belongings, and a lowering of self-esteem or tendency toward negative self-talk. Someone who experiences bullying and has other mental health-related risk factors also has a higher likelihood of turning to self-harm and even suicide. Watching for these signs can help you to intervene if someone is unwilling or unable to ask for support.
What Can I Do to Help?
The good news is whether someone who’s being bullied has confided in you or you’re the person experiencing it, there are solutions and resources to help mitigate the situation and address its harms.
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- If your child is being bullied, do your best to both support them and act as a role model. Strategies to address bullying vary depending on your child’s age and the situation. You can always help by listening to them actively and without judgment, watching for signs as noted above, and making an effort to be aware of their online activity. Creating a healthy environment with positive relationships, as well as teaching social skills and conflict resolution, are important building blocks for coping with and helping to prevent bullying—especially at a young age.
- If someone you know is being bullied, don’t be a bystander. Bullies who act out in front of witnesses often get their confidence from an audience. Aside from being someone to lean on, you can help by speaking up, including being a witness for the person reporting it. Encourage others—especially children and youth—to also act when they witness bullying.
- If you’re experiencing bullying in the workplace, be sure to document any instances in detail and report it to an appropriate authority like your manager or Human Resources. Stick to the facts and be as thorough as possible.
Bullying can have immediate and lasting psychological impacts even after it’s been addressed. Remember that counseling supports are available for you and your family to support in working through personal and relationship issues—including building resilience through the development of key problem-solving skills like assertiveness and self-awareness. Help is just a call or click away. Seeking support can significantly improve your mental health and help you cope with the challenges brought on by bullying.
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