How to Deal with Bullying

Bullying is a very common word these days, occurring frequently at work, at school, among neighbours, in shops, or on the playground. Bullying is forcibly hurting someone with bad words and behaviour, or by damaging something they value.

Bullying is generally of four types:

1. Verbal bullying: Bad language or calling someone by insulting names.
2. Social bullying: Belittling someone as a group.
3. Cyberbullying: Harassing someone on social media with nasty comments, private videos, or posts.
4. Physical bullying: Hurting someone through physical harm.

How to protect yourself from the harmful effects of bullying:

1. The first step is to report it to someone in authority.
2. Share your distress with someone close to you to relieve it.
3. As a parent, listen attentively to your child without blaming them, and take their distress seriously.
4. Avoid the routes where bullying is likely to happen.
5. Love yourself: People are often bullied about physical traits (such as being dark-skinned, short, or bald). In such cases, look the bully in the eye and say, "This is how I am, and I love it" — it is perfectly normal.
6. In cases of cyberbullying, take legal help.
7. If needed, seek the help of a psychologist or professional.