Effects of Bullying on Mental Health
By Dr. Abby Hanzlicek
September was the National Suicide Prevention month and October is National Bullying Prevention month, so this seems like an appropriate time to discuss the effects of bullying on mental health. A bully seeks to harm, intimidate or coerce. Bullying includes unwanted aggressive behavior, observed or perceived power imbalance, repetition or high likelihood of repetition of bullying behaviors. It can come in many forms- nonverbal, verbal, humiliation, psychological and physical. Bullying can happen in schools, at home, online, or even in the workplace. It can happen to anyone. Bullying victimization is an example of toxic stress, especially when it is cumulative. It should not be tolerated.
Those who experience bullying are more likely to experience depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. Effects from bullying can even present physically- such as with poor sleep, gastrointestinal upset and headaches.
Bullies are more than twice as likely to experience depression anxiety and six times more likely to be diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder, which is characterized by episodes of anger and hostility. Often, they are depressed, fearful and frustrated with others, and they portray their insecurities on those who cross their path, sometimes for no obvious reason.
Promoting a culture that sets standards for behavior is important. Encouraging policies to be written and followed, transparency and early reporting is essential for prevention/cessation of bullying. Schools/workplaces/parents must be committed to managing and resolving these issues to promote a better environment. Bullying has a direct impact on mental health and is strongly associated with suicide.
If someone is at immediate risk of harm: call 911.
If someone is thinking of suicide: call or text 988 or visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
