The impact of bullying on children’s mental health

Bullying has long been a pervasive issue in schools and communities, but its effects on children’s mental health are only now being fully understood. Research has shown that bullying can have serious and long-lasting consequences on a child’s wellbeing, leading to a range of mental health issues.

One of the most immediate effects of bullying is increased levels of stress and anxiety.

Children who are bullied often live in fear of further harassment, leading to heightened levels of stress that can impact their ability to focus on school and engage in social activities. This chronic stress can also lead to the development of generalised anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder.

Bullying can also have a profound impact on a child’s selfesteem and self-worth. Children who are bullied often internalise the negative messages they receive from their peers, leading to feelings of shame, worthlessness, and selfdoubt. This can contribute to the development of depression and other mood disorders, as well as increase the risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation.

In addition to these immediate effects, bullying can also have longterm consequences. Studies have shown that children who are bullied are at an increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders in adulthood, including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. They are also more likely to engage in risky behaviours, such as substance abuse, as a way to cope with their emotional pain.

Bullying is not just a harmless rite of passage, but a serious issue that can have lasting effects. Parents, teachers and policymakers must take action to create safe and supportive environments for all children to thrive.

After experiencing bullying, teens must prioritise their mental health and wellbeing. Here are some strategies they can use:

Talk to someone:

Sharing your feelings with a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, counsellor, or mental health professional, can provide emotional support and help you process what you’ve experienced. Practice self-care:

Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies.

Build a support network:

Surround yourself with friends and supportive peers who understand what you’re going through and can provide empathy and encouragement.

Set boundaries:

Establish boundaries with the person who bullied you and take steps to protect yourself from further harm. This might include avoiding contact with the bully or seeking help from authorities if necessary.

Challenge negative thoughts:

Bullying can often lead to negative self-talk and feelings of low self-worth. Practice challenging these negative thoughts and replacing them with more positive and realistic ones.

Melissa Smith is a licensed local counsellor and the founder of Grow and Glow Therapy with Mel.