Bullying And Mental Health Issues

Many children around the world are being bullied right now as ones speak. Adolescents in today’s society face bullying everyday, during their school lunches, recesses, sporting events, and through social media. Very few of those who are bullied speak up and tell an adult about their situation. Instead they keep everything to themselves and mental health disorders such as depression , anxiety, eating disorders, and more, gradually start to develop. If the person being bullied does not seek help when needed, then the mental health issues can further develop throughout their adulthood. Not only can bullying lead to mental health issues but those who already have mental health issues can be bullied because of them. The impact of bullying coupled with mental illness can push the victim to commit suicide if help was not found when needed.

Everyone is unique in their own way, but when someone has a disability they tend to be targeted by bullies.

People with disabilities may already have mental health issues which makes it harder for them to make friends due to peers making fun of their conditions. Recent studies have shown that “Children with disabilities are 2 to 3 times more likely to be bullied in the United States” (Stephens and Villano). Studies have also shown that “ Children with visible physical conditions or disabilities, such as cerebral palsy and Down syndrome, can be more likely to be excluded from social activities and called names” ( Stephens and Villano). Due to this they have have a harder time trying to fit in and make friends, The mental health issues they already have might be more likely to increase in severity because of them being

bullied.
Bullying can turn someone who was once joyful and excited to become depressed and miserable. Teenagers who are bullied in school sometimes try to be a bully to someone else. This may cause a mental issue to start developing in the other person too if not dealt with. The effects of bullying start to show in a child’s education too. “According to the Michigan Association of School Administrators, the effects of bullying extend far beyond the academic scope. Students who are repeatedly bullied may experience physical symptoms like stomach pains, headaches, and trouble sleeping” (Barrington). These side effects may contribute to fear of going to school or participating in class which only leads to further loss of interest and reduced academic performance. Students who are bullied often show low self-confidence, and frequently experiencing depression, suicidal thoughts, and even violent outbreaks. Essentially, the overall capability to function as a student worsens as a result of the constant stress from bullying alongside mental disorders.
Unfortunately, many problems that are faced when someone is being bullied can eventually develop into someone's adulthood. Depression and anxiety can cause long-lasting problems with relationships, work and happiness later in life. Skipping school or dropping out as a result of constant bullying can significantly affect success later in life. Many children feel as though they are powerless to do something about their unfair treatment. Because of this, they avoid issues which often lead to them facing helplessness, depression and anxiety. They feel trapped because they do not know how to tell someone about their situation. Letting someone know about a bully or someone being bullied is the greatest help someone can get. The help given can prevent someone from potentially developing severe mental disorders in their future.