Cyber Bullying can impact people of all ages, although most cyber bullying has been reported targeting young children and teens. Victims can be from all walks of life. They can feel very alone and distressed, often unsure what to do or whom to turn to. Being cyber bullied can be an overwhelming experience which can lead to people feeling embarrassed of themselves. Often not realising it is not their fault and that there is a great amount of support available to them. In some cases many young people can feel unable to confine in a responsible adult. This could be due to them being ashamed of the situation and nervous of being petty. Concerned that they will be told just to ignore the bullying. Furthermore to block or deactivate the account which the bullying is coming from.
For people who have been a victim of cyber bullying their daily lives can be affected massively. Being in constant distress and worry about being targeted by the bullies again or replaying the previous trauma in their minds. With mobile phones being a massive technological device so popular among young people they are so freely exposed to the ongoing issue at any point of their day, through any social networking site. Becoming a relentless issue for them not only going on during or after school / college hours but 24 hours of their day, every day and the cycle is continuous.
Recognising Change
Over the years there has been numerous tragic events amongst cyber bullying victims, including self-harm and suicide. It is clear that we need to do a lot more. It is time to recognise the growing issue of cyber bully so we can begin to protect young people. Preventing these serious consequences happening so often in the future.
Spotting the signs
Although it isn’t always easy to spot the signs of someone who is being cyber bullied there are a few things that can be noticed. There are four main categories of someone’s life that can be affected by cyber bullying. If you are worried about someone you know being cyber bullied then have a read.
Emotions- Acting sad, moody, anxious, withdrawn or defensive.
Social- Not wanting to participate, sudden change of group of friends, stopped use of devices.
Health- Lack of sleep, loss of appetite, concern of harming themselves.
Education- Drop in grades, getting trouble at school, lack of motivation to attend school.
Supporting someone who is being cyber bullied
Although you may not always be the ones being targeted by cyber bullying, it isn’t to say that someone you know isn’t a victim. Spreading kindness goes along way and there are many ways in which you can support someone who is being cyber bullied. Sometimes simply asking someone how their day was can go a long way. Have a look at these suggestions on how to support someone. You never know whose life you could be saving.
- Let them know that they do not deserve to be disrespected. It is not their fault that they are being targeted by the bully.
- Reassure them that what the bully is saying is not true and they shouldn’t listen to the harsh and harassing words being said.
- Ensure them that there is a great amount of help and support available to them if they reach out for it.
- Greatly encourage them to talk to their parents or a trusted adult.
- Keep evidence, tell them to make sure they screenshot or print out the online bullying for proof of what is happening.
- Tell them to click the ‘report abuse’ button if the bullying is coming through on social media.
- Advise them to keep a diary where they can feel safe to write down privately their feelings if they are down or upset. It is important not to bottle up your emotions.
- Remind them of how brave and strong they are for talking things through with you and reaching out for the first steps of help. Hopefully this will encourage and empower them to feel comfortable to get more help and support and put a stop to the issue.
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