Tue Nov 15 2022
5 Simple Steps To Handling Bullies
Dealing with bullies
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Akinwande Akintola, MD
Dual board-certified · Johns Hopkins fellowship-trained
If you’re being bullied, it’s important to remember that it’s not your fault, the only person at fault is the bully. Here are some ways to deal with bullies:
Don’t engage the bully, they want a reaction so they can have an excuse to keep bullying you. You can remove yourself from the situation when they start, if possible you can simply walk away. If online, you can block them,
You can have a conversation with the bully if you’re confident enough and can mentally handle it. You can express how you feel and how they’re hurting you. This is a bit daring and can either work or backfire.
If the bully is relentless, you can report it to a higher authority. You can involve the principal at school, Human Resources, or your boss at work. If it’s online you can report the person’s page. If you feel at risk of physical harm from the bully, you should consider reporting it to the police.
It’s pertinent to recite positive affirmations. Remember, a bully is only projecting his or her insecurities onto you; what they say about you is inaccurate. Remind yourself of your worth, how awesome you are and that nothing the bully says matters. Don’t blame yourself or take out your frustrations on others. Also, if the bully wants you to retaliate, don’t give them that power over you.
If need be, get some help. This may seem embarrassing as an adult but nothing is embarrassing about needing help. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help before it’s too late. Speak to someone.
If you are being bullied or know someone that is being bullied, please speak up and get help. Bullying is not OK and you don't have to put up with it. You can always reach out to a psychiatrist, mental health nurse practitioner, or therapist in Dallas, Houston, or San Antonio, Tx area, we offer both virtual and in-person appointments. Visit and contact us at https://www.lytepsych.com.
References:
http://preventingbullying.promoteprevent.org/what-bullying
https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/employers/workplace-bullying-violence-harassment-and-bullying-fact-sheet
https://www.stopbullying.gov/bullying/effects
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-deal-with-bullies-5213915
Trusted Resources & Sources
NIMH — Mental Health Topics
Evidence-based information on all major mental health conditions
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential 24/7 treatment referral service: 1-800-662-4357
CDC — Mental Health
Public health data and resources on mental health in the U.S.
Lyte Psychiatry articles are reviewed by board-certified psychiatrists and reference peer-reviewed research and federal health agency data.
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