Bullying is not simply “part of growing up”. It can have serious effects on a young person’s physical and mental health, their school performance, as well as having negative effects on their families and the broader community. Not only can bullying cause serious harm but it is also common, with up to 46.8% of Australian secondary school students reporting they have been bullied in some form over the past 12 months.
Family and friends can play a critical role in supporting young people involved in or experiencing bullying. Positive relationships can help protect young people from the negative consequences associated with being bullied. Young people who are well supported by their parents report fewer depressive symptoms than those who receive little parental support, regardless of whether they are the ones bullying or are the target.
Read more of this article on Headspace.org.au. Headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation, helping thousands of young people to get their life back on track.
