Have you ever seen someone getting bullied? Or maybe you have felt hurt by mean words or physical actions at school?

Bullying is a serious problem that affects students’ mental and physical health. It can cause anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. Not only does bullying affect students' mental health, it also affects their academic performance. 

As I referenced, bullying can be direct and indirect: either face-to-face or behind someone's back. Kids and teens are often bullied in many forms. It can affect their body, mind, and behavior. Bullying can also hurt how well they do in school. Researchers have looked at how bullying causes these problems, but many studies only show a link, not the full cause.

One of the most common effects of bullying is a strong feeling of shame. Many kids start to believe the bullying is their fault, which can make them feel embarrassed and unwilling to talk about it—even with their parents. If you suspect your child is being bullied and ask them, they might say no because they feel scared or ashamed. That’s why it’s so important for parents to learn and watch for the warning signs of bullying, since a child may carry the effects of bullying throughout their entire lives. “Bullying can affect physical and emotional health, both in the short term and later in life” (St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital). Understanding these signs is a key step in helping protect and support your child.

To prevent this, teachers and school staff need to know that bullying often happens in places with little supervision, like bathrooms, hallways, playgrounds, buses, or online. It should always be taken seriously. Students should be taught that telling an adult is not tattling. If a teacher sees bullying, they should stop it right away, write it down, and report it. It's not a good idea to make the bullied student meet with the bully, as it can be scary and embarrassing for the victim.

In conclusion, Bullying is a serious issue that harms students’ mental health, self-esteem, and school performance. It can happen in many ways, both direct and indirect, and often leaves kids feeling ashamed and afraid to speak up. That’s why it’s important for parents to know the signs and for teachers to take action quickly. Creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel heard and protected is key to stopping bullying.

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