Signs and Symptoms of a Bullied Child
A lot of children will not speak up if they are being bullied so it is important to be able to identify a bullied child. You should be aware of these signs with your child or students and investigate further if anyone shows any of these symptoms:
is afraid of walking to and from school
doesn't want to go on the school/public bus
begs to be driven to school
changes their usual routine
is unwilling to go to school
becomes withdrawn, anxious, or lacking in confidence
stammers a lot when talking
attempts or threatens suicide or runs away
cries at night or has nightmares
feels ill in the morning and says they are sick
comes home with clothes torn or books damaged or missing possessions
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has unexplained cuts or bruises
becomes aggressive, disruptive, or unreasonable
starts bullying other children or siblings
is frightened to say what's wrong when asked
does not want to use the Internet
is nervous and/or jumpy when a cyber message is received
Bullying can lead to depression and low self-esteem. He or she may begin to feel worthless, which can ultimately lead to depression and thoughts of suicide. Your student or child needs to know that bullying is the fault of the bully, not the victim. These are problems that can carry on into adulthood and may even go as far as suicide. There have been many cases of children committing suicide because of bullying, depression, and cyberbullying. Here is a list of cases of children that have all committed suicide.
Ryan Halligan was a victim of cyberbullying. This site is dedicated to the memory of Ryan and all young people suffering from bullying and having thoughts of suicide. There is valuable information about suicide, suicide prevention, bullying, and cyberbullying that we encourage everyone to check out.
www.chaseedwardsmemorial.comChase Edwards was driven to suicide from depression. His memorial website has very important information about depression and warning signs of depression that are very useful. If you suspect a student or your child is depressed please take a look at this website and click on the warning signs of depression on the main page for information.
You can contact the Telephone Crisis Services at 759-3398 or 1-800-721-0077. They offer emergency contact for depression and suicide 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at the local Sault Area hospitals. Do not hesitate to contact them if you are depressed and/or having thoughts of suicide. There is help. Please call.
