What to do if you are being bullied? - Talk to someone you can trust, a teacher, parent, relative or friend.
- If you can, write down everything the bullies have done or said to you.
- Keep any texts, emails or comments from social networking sites to show your teacher or parent and then block the senders.
- If you find it difficult to talk to an adult, ask one of your friends to come with you or ask someone to talk to an adult on your behalf.
- Most importantly, do something. Sometimes bullying stops quickly but doing nothing means that it may continue until someone is seriously hurt. That could be you or bullies may find a new victim. If their behaviour is not challenged they are unlikely to stop.
What not to do - Don't try and deal with the problem on your own ~ there is nothing wrong in asking for help
- Don't hit the bullies ~ you might end up being accused of bullying yourself
- Always tell the truth about what has happened. Don't exaggerate. If a small part of what you are saying is shown to be untrue then it throws everything else into doubt
- Don't believe the lies the bullies are telling about you
- Don't hide what is happening from people you trust. Keeping things secret is the bullies' biggest weapon against you. That's why they go to so much trouble to stop you telling.
Childline offers a confidential counselling service. Freephone 0800 441111 The following websites also offer useful advice: |
