- Identifying Cyberbullying: It can be tricky to distinguish between joking and bullying online. If comments or posts make you feel hurt, embarrassed, or isolated, and continue despite your requests for them to stop, you may be experiencing cyberbullying.
- Effects of Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying can impact individuals mentally, emotionally, and physically, leading to issues like anxiety, depression, and even physical health problems like headaches or stomach aches.
Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s normal to feel hurt, confused, or angry when experiencing cyberbullying. Recognizing and accepting these feelings is the first step toward addressing the issue. - Dealing with Cyberbullying:
– Document Everything: Keep records of bullying messages, posts, or comments. Screenshots can serve as evidence if you decide to report the behaviour. They can be crucial for reporting the incident.
– Seek Support: Talk to someone you trust—parents, teachers, or friends. If you’re uncomfortable discussing it with someone you know, look for national helplines or trusted adults.
– Use Platform Tools: Social media platforms offer tools for reporting and blocking bullies. Familiarize yourself with these tools to protect yourself online.
– Strengthen Privacy Settings: Review and adjust your social media privacy settings, limiting who can see your posts and contact you. - Resilience and Self-Care
– Don’t Respond to Bullies: Do not engage with the bully. Bullies often seek a reaction, and not responding can deter further harassment.
– Engage in Activities that Boost Self-Esteem: Participate in hobbies and activities that make you feel good about yourself, diverting focus from the negativity and rebuilding confidence. Take breaks from social media to reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
– Practice Self-Care: Take care of your mental and physical health, including getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in physical activity.
Final Thoughts
If you are facing cyberbullying, remember you are not alone. Seek support from those around you and use the tools available to protect yourself online. By acting and using your voice, you can help create a safer online community.
