Bullying Is A Mental Health Issue

Bullying by definition, is a deliberate and harmful behavior by a domineering person to gain control over the victim. It is driven by the desire to intimidate, often stemming from underlying insecurities and a need for peer acceptance.

What many don’t realize is that bullying is not just a behavioral problem. It’s also a significant mental health issue with lasting consequences. Both the victim, and the bully suffer long-term symptoms. Bystanders have been shown to have residual symptoms, as well.

Victims will suffer with depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. Bullies are more likely to have aggressive behaviors, antisocial behaviors and struggle with substance abuse disorders.

Bullying can take various forms; each harmful in different ways:

Verbal. This involves name-calling, making inappropriate sexual remarks, threatening or insulting others. Verbal attacks can quickly wear away the victim’s self-esteem and mental well-being.
Social. Although more subtle than physical or verbal bullying. Social bullying includes excluding someone from groups, spreading rumors, or purposefully embarrassing someone. This form is particularly common among girls and can cause deep emotional scars because of its indirect nature.
Physical. Hitting, tripping, poking or physically assaulting someone is more common among boys, but the physical harm leaves both visible and invisible wounds.
Cyberbullying. With the rise of digital media, cyberbullying has become a large problem. Cyberbullies use social media, text messages or online platforms to harass, embarrass or threaten others. The 24-hour access to digital media allows bullies to invade their victim’s life at any time, causing constant stress and anxiety. According to the American Psychological Association, about one in every four teens have experienced cyberbullying.

Bullying is a mental health stressor.

To be bullied is a stressor that can have major effects on a child or adolescent’s mental health. The impact is not only immediate, but can extend into adulthood. It’s essential for parents and caregivers to watch for changes in their child’s behavior. These behaviors in a child can signal that he or she is getting bullied:

Withdrawal from Social Interaction. A child who was once outgoing may suddenly become withdrawn and avoid friends, activities or social situations.
Poor School Performance. Bullying can lead to a drop in grades due to difficulty concentrating, fear of going to school or general lack of motivation.
Sleep Problems. A kid who has been bullied may have trouble sleeping, experience nightmares or struggle with insomnia.
Isolation. Victims may isolate themselves due to shame, embarrassment or fear of more bullying.
Mood Changes. Sudden mood swings, irritability or signs of depression may indicate that one is ongoingly being bullied.
Bullying most often happens in the school.
Understanding where and when bully behavior is most likely to occur can help parents and educators intervene more effectively. In kids aged 12-18, at least 22 percent report being bullied at school, according to the government website, stopbullying.gov. Females are more likely to be bullied than males, according to this website.

Bullying will often take place:

During lunch time at school. This unstructured period can be a prime time for bullies to target vulnerable students.
In middle school/junior high school. Bully behavior is high during these transitional years when children are navigating changes in social dynamics, self-esteem and peer acceptance.
On school buses. Bully behavior frequently occurs during the bus rides to and from school, where supervision is limited.
After school: While students are waiting for their rides or walking home, bullies often take advantage of these unsupervised moments.

Family dynamics can set the stage.

Bullying doesn’t just happen at school. Sibling bullying is common and can be caused by the same insecurities and desire for control that you see in schools. Family dynamics play a significant role, as unhealthy relationships at home can cultivate aggressive behaviors between siblings. Parents should address sibling rivalry early, setting boundaries and enforcing respectful behavior to prevent arguments from escalating into bullying.

Previous research has shown that strong sibling relationships can help shield against peer bullying and family conflicts, while also boosting self-esteem and overall development.

Not responding to a bully sends the wrong message.

It’s important not to turn a blind eye. Failing to intervene sends a message to the bully that their actions are acceptable. Peer intervention is rare, because most children fear being labeled a “snitch” or becoming the next target. This is why the responsibility falls on adults. Teachers, parents and school administrators must actively step in to stop the cycle of any level of bully behavior.

Parents set the example.

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their child’s attitudes towards others. Modeling inclusivity, empathy and respect encourages a mindset of kindness. Regular discussions about standing up for others can help children understand the importance of their actions and words.

If children see their parents using discriminatory language, making judgmental comments or displaying behaviors like name-calling, they may imitate these actions in their interactions with peers.

Schools, clubs and spiritual communities can help.

Supervised group activities at schools, clubs and spiritual communities can play an important part in teaching kids how to treat others with respect and kindness. Groups who work with children can include staff trainings to teach anti-bullying lessons, de-escalation techniques and promote a positive culture.

Bullying is more than just normal childhood behavior.

This agressive behavior is far more than just “kids being kids.” It is a serious mental health issue that can have devastating effects on the emotional and psychological well-being of children, adolescents, and into adulthood. By recognizing the signs and intervening early, adults can help protect children from long-term harm. The responsibility lies not just with schools, but within the home as well, where positive examples of respect and empathy are critical.

At Therapeutic Educational Consulting, we guide, support and recommend placement options for treatment centers, nature-based therapy, therapeutic boarding schools and alternative education for adolescents and young adults.

Schedule a no-cost discovery call with Rae Guyer, your therapeutic consultant to discuss options.

Photo credit, Golden Sikorka