Here are a few approaches you’re able to take.
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He says bullying is an issue he encounters regularly with children during treatment.
So, if you feel alone in this, know that youre not.
Almost everyone gets bullied at some point or anothermyself includedand almost everyone gets through the experience just fine.
It may not seem like things can get better right now, but they will.
Ignore Them Up to a Point
The first option is to ignore the bully, says DeGroat.
Theyre attempting to upset you in an effort to provoke a reaction from you.
If you dont react, theres no reward for the bully.
It makes them feel powerful.
If you ignore them completely the power goes away.
If you could tough it out, theyll get bored and move on.
Choose to see them as something non-threatening and theyll start to feel that way.
Do not be embarrassed by your situation, and do not hesitate to let someone know whats going on.
Go to a teacher, a counselor, or your parents, and explain the situation.
Once you inform someone else, youre no longer alone in dealing with it.
By reporting the bullying to the authorities, we are protecting ourselves from potential false accusations from the bully.
Fight Back in Self-Defense Only
Your third last-resort option is to fight back.
This approach is a bit more controversial, says DeGreat, but it can also be extremely effective.
I do not recommend the student fight the bully in retaliation, but
self-defense
, an important distinction.
What does self-defense mean, exactly?
For one, you should never start a confrontation with your bully.
Only respond to what they do.
You also need to keep your focus on protecting yourself, not hurting them.
The key is to show youre willing to defend yourself, not prove that youre up for fisticuffs.
Thats often all it takes.
And again, DeGroat highly recommends you discuss this option with your parents first.
Whatever approach you take, DeGroat emphasizes the importance of reaching out to someone you trust.
That may be a parent, a sibling, a friend, or a teacher.
Just having someone to talk to will keep you from feeling alone and powerless.
