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Bullying

Bullying can often be things like name-calling, hitting, happy-slapping or stealing someone's things. It also includes stuff that's less visible, like sending nasty texts or spreading false rumours about someone

All sorts of people of all ages get picked on for lots of reasons. Being bullied can make you dread going to school, and can also make you feel depressed, lonely and even suicidal.

Being bullied

If you're being bullied, you're not alone - every seven seconds another young person in Britain is going through it too. You might feel that there's no way out, but there are lots of ways to get help. Remember - it's not your fault, and you have the right to live without being picked on.

Dealing with bullying

Bullying probably won't stop unless you stand up and do something positive about it, such as telling someone you can trust.

• Tell someone if you are being bullied. You shouldn't feel bad about grassing someone up if they are making you feel bad.
• Act confidently to send out the message that you're not afraid.
• Strength in numbers: stay with others. You're more likely to be picked on if you're on your own.
• Keep a diary and keep all text messages as evidence of bullying. You can use it later to show that you're telling the truth.

If you suspect someone you know is being bullied, look for these signs:

• They become unhappy or withdrawn.
• They start missing school.
• They've got physical injuries they don't want to talk about.

If they are showing signs of the above stuff, ask them if they are being bullied. They probably won't be comfortable revealing it at first, but let them know that you take their worries seriously, that you can help stick up for them and will support them if they want to go tell their parents or teacher they're being bullied.

Support

You can get more information about bullying from the following sources, as well as support if you want someone to talk to (e.g. by calling ChildLine).