bullying and how it can affect someones life - a thread

TW - this thread will include talks of suicide, substance use and other topics.

bullying can affect everyone, those who are bullied, those who bully, and those who witness bullying. it is linked to many negative outcomes including impacts on mental health, substance use, and suicide. it is important to talk to kids on topics of mental health and bullying.

kids who are bullied can experience negative physical, school, and mental health issues. kids who are bullied are more likely to experience:

depression and anxiety, feeling lonely and worried. changes in everyday things, e.g sleeping, eating, loss of interest in activities.

health complaints

decreased academic achievement/GPA and standardized test scores and school participation. they are more likely to miss, skip, or drop out of school.

a very small number of bullied children might retaliate through extremely violent measures. in 12 of 15 school shooting cases in the 1990s, the shooters had a history of being bullied.

kids who bully others can also engage in violent and other risky behaviors into adulthood. kids who bully are more likely to:

abuse alcohol and other drugs in adolescence and as adults.

get into fights, vandalize property, and drop out of school.