Bullying takes so many forms these days. It is much harder to know if your individual is dealing with one. Here are some factors to look out for & how you can support them through what can be some of the hardest times in their lives.
Warning signs may include: You know your individual best & if anything seems out of place do not dismiss it, explore, investigate and reach out for support if you feel it is necessary.
Being afraid to go to school or finding ways to avoid going ie. sick, headache
Skipping school.
Performance at school, decreases or behavior's there change.
Having destroyed or items disappear
Physical bruises, wounds etc
Showing signs of bullying others
Engaging in self-harm, attempting or discussing suicide ideations
Supporting & Intervening in a bullying incident to helps undesired behaviors' to change:
Adults should:
Stay calm
Ensure that everyone is safe.
Listen attentively to all points of view.
Determine if bullying is actually the case.
Ensure support is provided to all individuals impacted, the person being bullied, the person creating the behavior's and those witnessing the behaviors'.
Students should:
Engage in a way they would like to be treated.
Support an individual who is the target of the bullying.
Don't watch or encourage bullying
If it is safe, encourage the individual to walk away with you.
Check in to see if the individual is OK and if they have someone to talk to.
Talk to an adult you trust and/or encourage them to.
Schools should:
Develop an action plan
Structure the physical and social environment to reduce opportunities for bullying behavior's
Develop a response plan to bullying
Monitor implementation
Adjust plans as necessary to ensure a safe learning environment for everyone.
Alberta offers support for those being bullied you can access it here:
https://www.alberta.ca/bullying-find-supports
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