Bullying is certainly an important topic which we should always take seriously and speak against. But during October, you should speak out louder than ever against bullying and the consequences which can result from allowing it to continue. Research shows that the negative effects of bullying can be long-lasting and include such conditions as chronic depression, increased risk of suicidal thoughts, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, poor general health, self-harm, substance abuse, and difficulty establishing trusting friendships and relationships. Letting others know that bullying will not be tolerated in your community should begin now.
How can you participate in observing this month? More specifically, these following steps will assist you to help protect your students and fight against bullying.
- Be informed. The better informed and educated you are, the more likely you are to have an impact.
- Practice what you preach. That old adage “your actions speak louder than your words” is applicable here. Children especially mock what they see, so be a good role model for those around you.
- Talk to your students and your own children. Talk about their experiences at school, and be the adult whom they trust to confide in when being mistreated by another.
- Be open to talking about online bullying. Cyberbullying is the fastest-growing type of bullying going on right now among young people.
- Form a group that stands for bullying prevention. Local businesses, your PTA, and/or service clubs would be good possibilities to help with the sponsorship of such an organization.
- Who to Call? Make sure to provide students with the information in case they need help or to talk with someone. The Cybersmile Foundation have a selection of helplines that offer various levels of support for problems ranging from cyberbullying, mental health, suicide prevention and more. Click HERE to view.
The bottom line is bullying of any kind MUST stop!!
Looking for more ways to show your support of National Bullying Prevention Month? PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center (NBPC) has provided everything you to participate for the month! Including ways to show support, activities, and classroom toolkits. Click HERE for more information.
TRENDbits 
Thank you so much, Karen, for bringing awareness to a problem that has gone on for a long time and is still not addressed enough. I know what it is to be bullied because I was there years ago. I suffered six long years of bullying in school and it got so bad I attempted suicide at the age of 14 because I couldn’t take anymore.
I’m fortunate that I survived and moved on to peace, happiness and success. But so many aren’t as lucky as I am!
This is a very powerful and informative post! Again, thank you so much!
LikeLiked by 1 person