Page 7 - Anti-Bullying Special Edition

#Breaking
#Breakin
g
g
#Breaking Sp tting the Signs:
#Breakin

he Sil
t
ence
the Silence
the Silence
t he Sil ence It’s crucial for parents, educators, and other trusted adults
to be able to recognise signs of bullying and related mental
health challenges in children and adolescents. Common
indicators that a young person may be struggling include:

• Sudden outbursts of anger or crying for no clear reason
ullying in schools is a critical issue with significant
Expressions of hopelessness or feelings of emptiness.
mental health consequences for victims and per-
• Overreactions of anger or frustration that seem out of
Bpetrators alike. Research shows that children who
proportion to the situation
experience bullying are more likely to develop depres-
• A noticeable loss of interest in activities that once-
sion, often displayed through sleep disturbances, ap-
Est her Akpama petite changes, emotional instability, and even suicidal brought them joy
Esther Akpama
her Akpama
Esther Akpama
Est
thoughts. Anxiety is also common, as victims live in con- • Feelings of low self-esteem, guilt, or worthlessness
Guidanc
ounsellor
Guidance Counsellor • Difficulty focusing or concentrating
e C
stant fear, making it difficult to form meaningful relation-
• A sudden, unexplained avoidance of school or activities
ships or focus on academics.
they previously enjoyed

Academically, bullying hinders performance, causing
If any of these signs are observed, it’s essential to offer sup-
students to disengage from studies or avoid school alto- port and open a dialogue with the young person, ensuring
Break
Break career prospects. they feel safe and understood. How you can Help
gether. Over time, this can impact their educational and
Break
Break

y
c
le
the Cycle Bullying deeply affects self-perception, leading to: If a young person is being bullied, here’s how you
th
e
C
C
e
y
the Cycle
th
c
le
Loss of Self-Confidence: Victims may avoid opportuni-
ties, feeling inadequate.
can help:
Increased Self-Criticism: Negative statements from • Listen and Validate: Let them share their feelings
Be
Be
bullies can lead to shame and self-doubt.
without judgment.
Social Isolation: Victims may withdraw, compounding Be • Encourage Communication: Reassure them
their struggles. Be they can talk to you anytime.
Perpetrators are also at risk, often exhibiting antisocial • Involve Trusted Adults: Seek support from
#Kind
behaviours like aggression and substance misuse. teachers or school counsellors.
#Kind
#Kind
• Teach Coping Skills: Help them develop healthy
As a school community, we all have a role to play in #Kind ways to handle the emotional toll.
creating a safe and respectful environment. It’s up to • Promote Self-Esteem: Encourage activities that
us, teachers, students, and parents to ensure that ev- boost their confidence.
ery student feels supported. By promoting kindness and • Take Action: Work with the school to address the
understanding, we can foster a culture where bullying is
bullying and ensure safety.
not tolerated, and everyone can thrive.
Providing support helps the young person feel safe,
valued, and empowered.
THE REGENT SECONDARY SCHOOL 6 6 THE REGENT SECONDARY SCHOOL 7