Let’s talk about bullying

And how we can help

Bullying happens when someone deliberately and repeatedly hurts another person, either physically or emotionally. It can happen anywhere – at school, online, or at work.

What Does Bullying Look Like?

Bullying includes:

  • Hitting, pushing, or other physical harm.

  • Name-calling or teasing.

  • Leaving people out on purpose.

  • Spreading rumors or sharing embarrassing information online.

If you or someone you know often feels scared or hurt by someone else, it might be bullying.

Cyber-Bullying

Cyber-bullying happens online or through mobile phones. It can include:

  • Spreading harmful rumors

  • Sending threatening messages

  • Sharing embarrassing pictures

  • Excluding someone from online groups

How Can we Help?

  • Look for signs like unexplained bruises, nightmares, or not wanting to go to school. Other signs include lost or damaged belongings, feeling sick, or acting aggressively.

  • >Watch them closely when they are with other kids.
    >Teach them what bullying is and how to recognize it.
    >Set clear rules about behavior and enforce them consistently.
    >Praise cooperative play.
    >Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult about bullying.
    >Teach them how to stand up for themselves.
    >Help them improve their social skills.

  • >Talk to them about cyber-bullying >Encourage open conversations about their online experiences.
    >Show them how to block, delete, and report bullies.
    >Don’t rely solely on restricting online access; teach them to navigate it safely.

  • >Supervise them closely around other kids.
    >Explain why bullying is wrong and discuss its impact.
    >Help them understand how it feels to be bullied.
    >Discuss what they think could help them stop bullying.
    >Teach them how to join in with other kids in a friendly way.
    >Set clear rules and consequences, and be consistent.
    >Praise positive social interactions.
    >Consider enrolling them in programs to help manage their behavior.

For Adults

Workplace bullying can be any repeated, unreasonable behavior that creates a risk to health and safety. It can range from mild annoyance to severe psychological trauma.

Signs of Workplace Bullying

  • Depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem

  • Panic attacks, fatigue, or eating disorders

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder or suicidal thoughts

Dealing with Workplace Bullying

  • Create channels for employees to report bullying.

  • Break the silence around bullying by encouraging open conversations.

  • Offer support to those who bully to help them change their behavior.

  • Address bullying through support and disciplinary measures.

  • Model respectful behavior and set clear expectations.

When to Seek Help

If bullying is affecting your life or your child’s life, a psychologist can help. They are trained professionals who can diagnose and treat mental health issues, including the effects of bullying.

Talk to your child’s teacher or school psychologist if the issue involves another student. For workplace bullying, speak to your supervisor or HR department. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a psychologist or GP for support and more information. Together, we can create a safer, more supportive community.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, it’s important to seek help. With the right treatment and support, individuals can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Reach out to mental health professionals, your GP, or our organisation for more information and support. We are here to support the Tamil community in discussing mental health openly and finding the tools to help and support each other.

Remember you are not alone.

Share this resource with your friends and family and help raise awareness about mental health in the Tamil community. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels comfortable talking about mental health.