What are the effects of bullying?
Bullying is rarely a one-time event. In most cases, bullying involves repeated incidents over time that can have lasting impacts on the person being bullied as well as the person engaging in bullying behaviour. Some of the serious, long-term effects of bullying include:
Academic Impacts
Children and young people who are bullied can have trouble in school. Their performance may suffer because they can’t focus or find it difficult to concentrate. This might make them feel less engaged in the school environment, which is made worse by the fact that they might cope by avoiding school or particular classes.
Mental Health Concerns
There can be long-term psychological impacts on children and young people who are bullied, including feeling sad and stressed, having panic attacks, feeling anxious and/or depressed, finding it difficult to cope with daily life, and/or having sleep disturbances (e.g., too little or too much sleep, nightmares, etc.). Of particular concern is the finding that both parties involved—the target and the person(s) engaging in bullying behaviour—are at a high risk for suicide.
Physical Health Problems
The ongoing stress and anxiety related to bullying can lead to physical health problems like headaches, stomach aches, and exhaustion.
Low Self-esteem and Trust Issues
The impact of bullying on a person’s confidence and self-worth is significant, as these tend to get worse over time. Youth who are bullied can feel like something is wrong with them, or they’re “not good enough.” It can also cause people to feel weary about and lose trust in others, making it hard to open up about these challenges or form new relationships.
Social Withdrawal
Since bullying threatens a person’s sense of self, their confidence, and their trust in others, it can cause them to withdraw from social activities and interactions.
What are some signs I should watch for?
It can be difficult for parents to identify if their youth is being bullied or engaging in bullying behaviour because it often occurs out of their sight. It may also be the case that the child or youth feels embarrassed, helpless, or worried about what might happen if they talk about their experiences. It’s helpful to keep your eyes and ears open for the following signs:
Academic Concerns
Your child or youth’s grades may start to drop, or you may notice that they seem to have lost interest in or actively avoid going to school and/or school events.
Changes in Mental Health
Your child or youth may suddenly show signs of anxiety, depression, or nervousness, or seem to change moods abruptly. Visit School Mental Health Ontario to learn more about noticing mental health concerns in your child or youth.
Changes in Physical Health
Your child or youth may complain of stomach issues and/or headaches, or they seem to be eating and sleeping more or less than usual. There may also be physical marks on their body, like unexplained bruises, scratches, broken limbs, or other wounds.
Social and Behavioural Changes
Your child or youth may come home with torn or damaged clothing, books, or belongings. They may seem to be avoiding social situations, losing friends, and/or spending more time on their own or with you. They may suddenly ask for money or become unusually secretive (particularly after spending time online). They may present as more defensive, secretive, or agitated than usual, and may begin to show angry outbursts that seem to come from out of nowhere.