Being bullied is a horrible and damaging experience. Whether you are a bully or being bullied, read on…
Nearly everyone has bullied at some time in their lives. If you are being bullied, you may feel scared, lonely and vulnerable. If you are a bully, you may feel that you have got yourself into a pattern of behavior that you can’t get out of.
Either way, you owe it to yourself and others to try and sort out the situation so that the bullying stops. For many people, bullying causes huge stress and anxiety and can affect every part of their lives. The important thing to realise is that you can have control over what is happening. Remember that no-one deserves to be a victim of bullying.
Why me?
You may have heard people say ’stand up for yourself’. That’s all very well, but often the braver thing to do is tell someone you trust. Even if you feel strong enough to deal with what is happening, there may be another person being bullied by the same person who is not. Telling someone about bullying isn’t ‘grassing’ or telling tales. You and others have the right to be safe from attacks and harassment. Nobody can help you unless they know what is happening to you.
What can I do?
The most important thing that you can do is talk to someone. not just a friend (although that’s great) but someone who could make a difference in the situation. This could be your teacher, your parents or your boss at work. If you would rather chat confidentially why not get in touch with one of the organizations mentioned below.
Don’t struggle with this issue alone and don’t accept bullying as acceptable behaviour.
What does the Bible say?
Remember that you are valuable and precious. Even if you hate the way you are acting at the moment, or the things that are happening to you, God can help you to overcome it. The Bible says, ‘He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; he offers strength to the weak.(Isaiah 40:29)
Where can I get more help
Don’t bottle things up, or try to cope on your own. Check out what the Bible says, pray and try to talk to someone who can help you – maybe your church leader, youth worker, or someone else that you really trust. They will be able to pray with you, and give you advice and helpful tips.
You could also contact…
Kidscape
0845 205 204
http://www.kidscape.org.uk/childrenteens
Reachout
http://www.reachout.com.au
Childline
0800 1111
http://www.childline.org.uk
The Samaritans
0845 790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org
Taken from BIG ISSUES:Bullying by Spring Harvest written by Ems Hancock and Robin Rolls – This book is available from the Spring Harvest store
