Being the subject of bullying is painful and awful for the victim. However, many people struggle to realize the effects of bullying. Families or anyone who engages with kids and teens need to be aware that it can have both mild and severe effects on all people who are involved. Even though the majority of studies on bullying have focused on youth who have been the victim of bullying and those who bully others also suffer bad consequences. So let us look at the harmful consequences of bullying.

  Research has linked bullying with adverse mental, physical, social, and academic effects. Its severe effects are often overlooked and not taken seriously. The empathy gap is the term used for it. Mental health experts are implying policies to stop bullying by taking steps to reduce this gap.

Let us have a look at them to handle these effects later in the therapy.

Mental Effects

The mental consequences of bullying can be under the surface and not easily seen. These include

• They may have frequent low moods and be sad.
• Anxiety is common among them.
• They develop a fear of random things among them e.g. fear to walk alone to the school.
• They have low self-esteem due to feelings of worthlessness and less confidence.
• Teenagers may indulge in drug abuse due to distress or to find an escape.
• Self-harm activity is common among them.
• Aggression and violent behavior are common among them.

Bullying can cause poor mental health in people of any age, but it is more likely to happen to kids who already struggle with mental health issues. For instance, a child who is lonely and has less confidence can be a victim of bullying. Studies show that online bullying has a link to poor mental health. Children who have experienced abuse on social networking sites report higher levels of sadness and suicidal thoughts, as well as more emotional pain, aggression, and misconduct, as compared to those who have not.

Note: Depression and suicidal thoughts are among the worst consequences of bullying. If you notice any such signs in you or someone you know, report to a mental health expert as soon as possible. Life is precious, save it!

Physical Effects

Bullying and abuse have physical consequences which are easily detected. Such as bruises or wounds due to a physical attack. However, stress can cause medical problems such as

• They may have digestive problems and pain in the stomach due to it.
• Have loss of appetite.
• They may have growth problems due to poor eating habits.
• They frequently report headaches or other body pains.
• Difficulty sleeping due to flashbacks, disturbance, or fear.
• Bedwetting is a sign of abuse and distress.
• Stressful events can increase stress hormones and increase heart rate due to fear and distress.
• They have a weak immune system and are easily prone to illnesses.

Moreover, it affects the overall body functions of people as a result.

Social Effects

Bullying has severe consequences on the social life of a person as

• They lose their confidence.
• They face difficulty engaging in social events. Research shows that they have poor social adjustment as a result.
• Other people avoid or reject them too as a result of conforming.
• They often isolate themselves.
• Family problems are also common due to anger.
• They may have difficulty in maintaining relationships due to trust issues.
• They have difficulty in making future relations as well. Research shows that they may become abusive or emotionally unavailable partners in the future.

Academic Effects

It has been linked to poor academic performance in kids and teens, according to several studies. Victims may develop post-traumatic stress which can hinder their daily life and school activities. Its academic effects of it include

• They may face difficulty concentrating.
• Bullying also has adverse consequences on memory. So it can be difficult to remember lessons.
• If bullying is happening at school then you link negative feelings with that place instead of a place of learning. So they may feel constant fear in school.
• They may also miss their classes.

If you’re a victim of bullying or know somebody who is, there are several ways by which you can deal such as

• Talk to a trusted adult. It might be someone close to you such as your parent, teacher, or coach on whom you have a trust. Informing an authority will help to stop the bully.
• Move on. People who bully like the reactions of others and find their actions of abuse pleasing. If it is something not extreme such as calling names, you can ignore them. But always report if they are causing you major distress. Don’t be afraid of them.
• Build your self-confidence. A bully may be feeding on your low confidence. Speak confidently to them that you are not inferior to them.
• Join support groups at your school. You can join or create a support group with people like you. If you interact with people like you will help you to accept your problems, express them, and reduce your stress as well.
• Seek therapy. As it has adverse effects, talking to a therapist will be helpful to handle mental and educational issues. Next, you can start a course at our site (mentioned under the “call to action” heading).

Research suggests that bullying has severe consequences that last throughout life. One study found that it may have a poor effect on mental health in adults than initially thought. Further, the effects can be far more harmful than adult abuse. It is important to keep in mind that early memories shape the people’s views who grow up to be adults. Hence, it is not strange that the effects of bullying last far into life. Their future views including how they see themselves and other people are majorly influenced by this. Are you a victim of bullying or know someone who is? You can read and learn more about the topic at our website. Read the article named “How to Stop Bullying and Identify Different Types of Bullying”, to stop its harmful effects.

We understand how stressful it can be for someone to be bullied. So you can start or recommend a course “Coping with Bullying” at Epsychonline. You can also join a “Low Self-Esteem” course to build your self-esteem and better manage your distress. We hope to be a help to you. Join right away!