Page 49 - It GiRL (September 2019)

IG Your World

Bullyingindisguise
So,whatisbullying? Invisible or subtle bullying happens

Bullying is defined as deliberate behavior
when your besties treat you like
that you know will make someone feel bad you out and make you feel like you
a friend, but sometimes can single
about themselves. It’s usually repeated
over and over and can be done in lots
don’t belong. It may start out as
of different ways. It doesn’t have to be
a few playful digs, but things can
a physical act – it can be whispering or
get serious if it goes on for too long
hurtful comments behind your back and and to a point where you don’t feel
can happen both on the playground
comfortable anymore. On the flip
and online. Bullying can lead to low self-
side, it’s important to think about
esteem, anxiety and depression, which is
so not cool. It can be hard to spot bullying what you are saying or what you’re
agreeing with, because sometimes
etim
sometimes, so make sure you are familiar
ne
with the different ways it can happen, so if you could be bullying som
without even realising it t.
you see it, you can help put a stop to it.
,
What should I do if Im being bullieD? v
t People who bully like to see a reaction
in their targets. If someone embarrasses
exper
you or makes you feel bad, give them
your best smile and walk away.
s If you are getting mean text messages Amanda Greh
or emails, save them and show
counsellor for
and has share
someone you trust.
s It’s important to remember that you
don’t have to go through it alone. There dealing with
1. STAY CALM
is always someone you can turn to for
Sometimes, a
help, like a parent or teacher.
can make th
taking slow breaths and thi
CouldIbehurtingothers? what to say or do next.
2. BE AN UPSTANDER
An upstander is someone who points
out mean behaviour in a kind way.
Sometimes you might not even realise
that you are hurting someone’s feelings.
leave people out like that” or “at our
Look for signs that tell you the other person For example, you could say “we don’t
school, everyone is allowed to play”.
feels uncomfortable, and focus on ways
that you can be a better friend. Also,
think about how you feel. Are you upset
Making a joke can be a great way
about something or feeling a little jealous? 3. MAKE A JOKE
to respond to someone being mean.
Chances are, you could be putting
For example, if someone puts you
someone else down because you don’t
feel good about yourself. Talk to someone down, you might say: “Thanks for the
compliment!” Make sure any joke you
you trust about how you can resolve your
make isn’t mean about someone else.
own problems.
There are things you can do to help
Needsomeonetochatto? 4 BOUNCING BACK
yourself feel better and “bounce back”,
Kids Helpline is a free and completely private such as playing with someone else or
doing something fun that you enjoy.
and confidential service for young people
aged 5 to 25 years old. It is available 24 hours
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM a day, seven days a week, which means that If people keep being mean on purpose,
5. GET SUPPORT
or you are finding it hard to deal with, it’s
whatever you are going through – no matter
okay to talk to someone you trust. You
how big or small – there is always a friendly
can talk to a trusted adult like a parent
and caring counsellor ready to listen and
help. Remember, you are NEVER alone. You
or teacher, or talk to Kids Helpline.
can get help by calling the number, 1800 55 1800
or logging on at: kidshelpline.com.au
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