3 Steps to Cope with Bullying

Everyone deserves respect, but sometimes people think it’s “funny” or “cool” to treat others unkindly by calling them names, putting them down, or even threatening them with violence. This is bullying.

Have you ever been bullied by someone at school or online? When someone threatens or intimidates you, it can be hurtful and scary. So what can you do?

First, if you feel safe, stand up for yourself and tell the bully to stop. Sometimes that’s all it takes to let someone know you won’t tolerate how they’re acting.

Second, leave the situation as soon as you can and get the help of an adult you trust, like a parent, teacher, coach, or Church leader. They can help set boundaries to protect you and the bully.

Third, don’t hold your feelings inside, even if you are embarrassed. Talk about what’s happening with someone you trust. He or she can help you sort out your feelings and find ways to cope with what happened.

Remember that when someone bullies, it’s a reflection of the bully, not you. It’s possible he or she is hurting inside and is using bullying as a way to make himself or herself feel better. In the long run, that never works.

Forgiving and treating a bully with respect will make a big difference in both of your lives.

Stand Up

Stand up for yourself or for someone else being bullied. You can stand up directly to the bully, or you can tell an adult about what’s happening. Either way, saying something sends a message to the bully—and everyone else—that unkind behavior isn’t all right.