Bullying is a huge issue, with about 20% of students ages 12-18 getting bullied worldwide, and in the U.S., it’s roughly 1 in 5 students who say they’ve experienced it (UNESCO, 2019; National Center for Education Statistics, 2019). When it comes to cyberbullying, the stats are pretty alarming too; around 37% of teens between 12 and 17 have faced online harassment, and since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, incidents of cyberbullying have skyrocketed by 40% (Pew Research Center, 2022; L1ght, 2020).

Most bullying goes down in certain school spots—43% happens in hallways or stairwells, while 42% occurs right in classrooms. Cafeterias and school grounds also see their fair share of bullying, with 26% and 22%, respectively (National Center for Education Statistics, 2019). The types of bullying are pretty varied, with 79% being verbal abuse, 50% social bullying, 29% physical bullying, and 25% cyberbullying (UNESCO, 2019).

Demographically, girls are more likely to be victims of cyberbullying (38%) compared to boys (26%) (Pew Research Center, 2022), and LGBTQ+ students face even harsher treatment, with 70% experiencing bullying compared to their heterosexual peers (UNESCO, 2019). It’s concerning that only 46% of bullying incidents are reported to school staff (National Center for Education Statistics, 2019), leaving many victims feeling isolated.

The effects of bullying are serious. Victims often struggle with increased depression, anxiety, and sleep issues, plus they have a tough time adjusting to school life (CDC, 2019). In fact, bullying victims are 2 to 9 times more likely to consider suicide than those who haven’t been bullied (Yale University, 2010). But there’s hope—when bystanders step in, bullying can stop in about 10 seconds, 57% of the time (Hawkins, Pepler, & Craig, 2001).

Academically, students who get bullied tend to see their grades and test scores drop (National Center for Education Statistics, 2019), and the long-term effects are just as bleak. Adults who were bullied as kids are more likely to deal with depression and anxiety disorders later in life (JAMA Psychiatry, 2015).

Here are lots of ideas for kids on how to stop bullying:

1. Tell a trusted adult:
   • Talk to your parents, teachers, or school counselor.
   • They can help you and take action to stop the bullying.
2. Stand up for yourself:
   • Use a strong, confident voice to tell the bully to stop.
   • Practice saying “Stop it, I don’t like that” in the mirror.
3. Stay in groups:
   • Bullies often pick on kids who are alone.
   • Stick with friends during recess and lunch.
4. Ignore the bully:
   • Sometimes, not reacting takes away the bully’s power.
   • Act like you don’t care and walk away.
5. Use humor:
   • If you feel safe, try laughing off the bully’s comments.
   • A joke can sometimes diffuse the situation.
6. Build your confidence:
   • Join clubs or sports teams you enjoy.
   • Learn a new skill or hobby.
7. Keep a record:
   • Write down what happened, when, and where.
   • This can help adults understand the situation better.
8. Use the buddy system:
   • Ask a friend to stick with you when you’re near the bully.
   • Look out for each other.
9. Practice role-playing:
   • Act out bullying scenarios with your parents or friends.
   • Practice how you’ll respond.
10. Learn self-defense:
    • Take a class to boost your confidence (but only use as a last resort).
11. Use positive body language:
    • Stand tall, make eye contact, and speak clearly.
    • This shows the bully you’re not an easy target.
12. Seek support from older students:
    • Some schools have peer mentoring programs.
13. Join or start an anti-bullying club:
    • Work with others to create a kinder school environment.
14. Use distraction techniques:
    • Change the subject or pretend you hear someone calling you.
15. Set boundaries:
    • Clearly tell the bully what behaviors are not okay.
16. Use “I” statements:
    • Say “I feel hurt when you say those things” instead of accusing.
17. Develop a safety plan:
    • Work with your parents to create a plan for different scenarios.
18. Learn about your school’s bullying policy:
    • Know your rights and the proper reporting procedures.
19. Practice empathy:
    • Try to understand why the bully might be acting out.
    • This doesn’t excuse their behavior, but it might help you respond.
20. Use technology wisely:
    • For cyberbullying, block the bully and save evidence.

Remember, if you ever feel in danger or if the bullying doesn’t stop, it’s crucial to keep telling adults until you get the help you need. You don’t have to face bullying alone!