Signs and Symptoms of a Cyberbullied Child
As with regular bullying, a lot of children will not speak up if they are a victim of cyberbullying so it is important to be able to identify one. This is a serious issue and should be addressed as soon as you become aware of any of these signs with your child or students and investigate further if anyone shows any of these symptoms:
long hours on the computer
closes windows on their computer when you enter the room
is secretive about Internet activities
says they are doing homework on the computer but are actually behind in their school work
won't say who they are talking to
you may find unexplained pictures on the computer
trouble sleeping
stomach and headaches, unexplainable crying, feeling sick
lack of interest at social events that include other kids
lowered self-esteem
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.
Also see the regular bullying signs and symptoms page for more information on bullied children as a lot of the signs are connected. Do not accept the bullying behaviour as a problem your child or student has to live with, treat the problem as necessary whether that means contacting the teacher, principal, parent, or us.
