Stop bullying: Stop suicide with the signs of bullying
Has your child considered suicide?
Do you know if your son or daughter being pushed to the edge by a bully?
Like domestic violence, bullying can happen to children from all backgrounds, irrespective of cultural or financial backgrounds.
To fight bullying, the Newcastillian has begun an educational series revolving around bullying.
Read: Stop bullying: What is bullying
Do you know if your child is probably being bullied?
Look out for the following signs and determine if your child needs help:
- Unexplained injuries, this includes bruises and cuts
- Lost or destroyed clothing, books, electronics or jewellery.
- Changes in eating habits, both skipping meals and binge eating.
- Difficulty in sleeping or recurring nightmares
- Declining school grades, and a loss of interest in school
- A loss of friends and avoiding social interaction
- Low self esteem
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Substance abuse
- Self-harm, check if your child is constantly wearing winter-clothing in summer months.
If you notice any of these signs, approach your child immediately.
It is imperative to assure your child that the bullying is not their fault.
While living in fear of their bullies, a lot of children often believe they play a role in the abuse.
How to tell if your child is the bully?
- Your child seems to display aggressive behaviour
- Your child seems preoccupied with social status.
- They are extremely competitive, regardless of the situation.
- Your child seems to show little or no empathy, especially to children who are softer.
If you notice any of these signs, it is imperative to take the necessary steps to determine if your child is a bully or not.
Be sure to read the next edition of Stop bullying: Rising above bullying
If your child is being bullied, share your story with us and email [email protected]
