Tips for Youth
- Remember that being bullied is not your fault, and there’s nothing wrong with you—no one deserves to be bullied!
- Bullying isn’t just physical violence—threatening someone, laughing at them, taunting them, starting nasty rumours about them or not letting them hang out with you or your friends is all bullying.
- Tell an adult you trust if you are being bullied, or someone else is. Keep telling until you get help
- Call the Kids Help Line 1-800-668-6868 for support—it’s free and confidential.
- Don’t bully the bully. Using insults or fighting back will make the problem worse.
- Use humour—say something funny to take the sting out of teasing; try not to take it personally, get upset or show hurt feelings.
- If the bullying is making you afraid or very upset, have a teacher or an adult help you with a safety plan. You may have to change your route home, or avoid being where the bully is, until the problem is solved. Don’t think of it as acting scared—think of it as acting smart!
- Refuse to go along with bullying—bystanders who laugh, agree or cheer only encourage the bully’s bad behavior. Instead, take the victim’s side; if you feel safe doing so, tell the bully to stop. Report what you see or hear to an adult. Ask your school to form an anti-bullying committee with representation from teachers, parents and students.
- Treat people the way you want to be treated.
Remember, you have the right to be treated with respect and feel safe!
