Bullying Support Hub- Teens

Bullying isn’t always obvious. Sometimes it’s loud and in-your-face. Other times it’s quiet, sneaky or happens online where adults don’t see it.

But no matter how it shows up, bullying is when someone keeps being hurtful on purpose and it makes you feel worried, upset or unsafe.

• It can happen to anyone.
• It can be done by friends, classmates, teammates or strangers.

Different Types of Bullying

Here are some real life examples of bullying

Verbal Bullying

• Name calling

• Insults or 'jokes' that aren't funny

• Threats or constant teasing

Social Bullying

• Being left out on purpose

• Rumours spreading

• Friends being turned against you

Online Bullying (Cyberbullying)

• Someone blowing up your phone with mean or threatening messages

• Being bullied in a group chat

• Screenshots being shared to embarrass you

• Fake accounts pretending to be you

• Being excluded from games or chats

• Pressure to send pics or messages

Physical Bullying

• Hitting, punching or tripping

• Messing with or damaging your stuff

Is it Bullying or Just Drama?

Not every argument is bullying.

Bullying usually means:

• It keeps happening
• It's on purpose
• It makes you feel unsafe

If you're unsure, that's okay! Trust how it feels in your body. If it feels wrong, it matters.

You're not being dramatic. You're not weak for asking for help. We're here to help you figure it out.

You don't have to deal with this alone.

Lots of young people experience bullying and getting help early can make a huge difference. You deserve to feel safe, respected and supported - both online and offline.

Things you can do:

Tell Someone You Trust

• This could be a teacher, a parent, coach or school counsellor

Don't Respond with Aggression

• It can make things worse
• Walk away when you can

Save the Proof

• Screenshot messages, comments, usernames
• Don't delete things yet

Block, Mute or Avoid Them

• You don't owe anyone a reply
• It's okay to leave them on 'read'

Report It

• On social media, games, apps or at school - reporting helps stop it

Stick with People Who Make You Feel Safe

• Online or in real life. You deserve to be around kindness

If you're scared that speaking up will make things worse - that's really common.

But you don't have to go through this alone. Get help right away from people who are here to listen, guide and help you whenever you need it. On the phone or online. 

You are not alone.

The online world is a huge part of your life. It’s a place to chat, create, play and connect with friends. 

But sometimes it can be a bit sketchy and things online can leave you feeling uncomfortable or upset.

The Online Safety Zone is here to help you:

• Stay in control online
• Know what’s okay and what’s not
• Figure out what to do when something feels off

You deserve to feel safe online, and we’re here to help.

Simple Ways to Stay Safe Online

Staying safe online doesn’t have to be complicated, a few small habits can make a big difference. 

Our top tips:

• Take a second before sending/posting messages (even in DMs) – once it’s online, it can be shared quickly
• Keep accounts private so random people can’t see your posts
• Use strong passwords and don’t share them with friends (even your best friends)
• New account trying to add/friend you? Keep an eye out for accounts that:
  • Have no posts
  • Weird usernames or profile pics
  • Spam you with comments or DMs
• If something feels sketchy or upsets you, block and report them
• Talk to an adult you trust if something online feels sketchy or upsetting

If you didn’t do all of these – that does NOT make it your fault.

If your friend is being bullied, online or in real life, they might feel scared, embarrassed or feel alone. 

Just being there for them can make a huge difference.

If you’re being bullied, it’s normal to feel stressed, sad, angry or even confused. 

Taking care of yourself can help you feel stronger and more in control. Here are some ways to look after your wellbeing.

You are kind. You are brave. You are not alone.