Understanding Bullying
What Is Bullying?
Bullying is a deliberate and harmful behaviour aimed at belittling, intimidating, or hurting another individual. Examples include:
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Physical Bullying: Hitting, slapping, or pushing someone.
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Verbal Bullying: Name-calling, taunting, or racial slurs.
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Psychological Bullying: Spreading rumours, manipulating social relationships, or stalking.
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Cyberbullying: Using digital platforms to harass or shame the victim.
It's essential to understand that bullying is repeated and intentional—it is not an isolated event or accidental harm.
What Bullying Is Not
Bullying is not mere teasing, an occasional argument, or an isolated act of aggression. Though these can be harmful, they don't possess the repeated and targeted nature that defines bullying.
Consequences Of Bullying
Being subjected to bullying can result in numerous consequences, both psychological and physical. These may include:
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Emotional distress
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Anxiety and depression
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Low self-esteem
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Physical ailments
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Academic struggles
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Inability to work or concentrate
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Lower productivity
Signs & Symptoms
If you or someone you know is experiencing frequent mood changes, withdrawal from activities or friends, declining grades, or unexplained physical injuries, these may be signs that bullying is occurring. Work-related symptoms may include:
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Increased absenteeism
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Declining work performance
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Reluctance to participate in meetings or social events
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Isolation from colleagues
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Exhibiting signs of stress or nervousness before going to work
Treatment Approaches
Treatment often involves a multifaceted approach, including:
1. Psychological Interventions: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and
Narrative Therapy are proven methods.
2. Assertiveness Training: Self-Advocation, Confidence
3. Medical Treatments: In some cases, medication such as anti-depressants
or anti-anxiety medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
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Tips For Coping With Bullying
1. Speak Up: Don't keep your experience a secret. Talk to someone you trust—it can be a
family member, friend, or professional like us.
2. Establish Boundaries: Learn assertiveness techniques to confidently say "no" or ask for help.
3. Document Evidence: Keep records of bullying incidents. This can be crucial if you
decide to take formal steps to stop the bullying.
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Get Help
If you recognize the signs of bullying in yourself or someone you know, consider seeking
professional assistance for a comprehensive approach to coping and healing. Reach out to us,
we're here to help and provide you with the support you need.
Remember, there is hope, and it's okay to ask for help. We believe that everyone deserves to live a life free of bullying and its effects.