Recent studies have linked bullying to everything from depression and self-harm, to eating disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder. Combine this with the extensive media coverage of bullying-related suicide and it is not surprising that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assembled an expert panel to focus on these issues.
As a result, the panel recently released a special issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health that focuses for the first time on the relationship between bullying and suicide. The CDC also declared bullying a significant public health problem with harmful consequences.
Bullying leaves victims struggling with physical, emotional and academic issues. Even victims of sibling bullying can suffer significant consequences. But with proper help and intervention, bullying can be stopped and those targeted can begin to heal.
If you suspect your child is being bullied, check out 8 Ways to Spot Bullying in Your Child's Life. You also might find 8 Reasons Why Victims of Bullying Don't Tell and 5 Myths About Victims of Bullying useful.
Other resources include:
- 10 Ways to Help Your Child Overcome Bullying
- 8 Skills Kids Need to Avoid Bullying at School
- 6 Things to Say to Your Kids When They Are Bullied
- 7 Ways Parents Can Address Sibling Bullying
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