Bullying
Bullying is common in Ireland, especially at school. The problem is, if you are being bullied, it can be hard to talk about it. But this is what has to happen! It’s not your fault it started but you can do something to stop it.
Telling a parent, a teacher, a youth/sports group leader or someone in a position of authority who can help, is very important. If you find it too difficult or you’re frightened, ask a friend to support you and be with you when you talk about the bullying.
There are differences in how boys and girls bully. It's more common for boys to do something physical e.g. fighting, stealing, name calling and breaking things while it's common for girls to use psychological pressure like giving someone the 'silent treatment' or texting/cyber bullying.
Are you being bullied now?
If you’re already being bullied, number one action is to talk to someone. Most schools have guidelines to stop bullying.
- Believe in yourself. Don't believe what the bully says of you. You know that it is not true.
- The difficulty lies with the bully not you and help is available to stop it.
- Try not to show that the bully has upset you - they may become bored with getting no reaction from you and stop.
- If you are a victim of cyber or text bullying, don’t reply. Just make sure you tell someone what’s going on.
