Is My Child Being Bullied?

This is a question many parents ask and in most cases a child will not always admit they are being bullied. They’re probably not going to open up to you and say, “I’m getting teased and bullied at school.” Instead, it is going to manifest itself by your child saying something like, “I don’t want to go to school today.”

If this seems to be happening a lot, consider the possibility that bullying might be the reason behind the sick days. Changes in mood, behaviour and physical appearance can also be warning signs of someone being bullied, however, some young people may not display any warning signs at all.

Signs to look out for:

• Excuses to miss school headaches, stomach complaints etc.
• Missing school altogether
• School work not up to usual standard
• Coming home with items missing and /or damaged
• Showing signs of being in a fight
• Going to bed earlier than usual
• Not able to sleep
• Become moody, aggressive or both
• Lack of confidence
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Loneliness
• Bed wetting (mainly younger children)
• A change in eating habits
• Become insecure or afraid

As there could be other reasons for these symptoms, try to avoid jumping to conclusions. Could there be anything else bothering your child such as, changes in your family?

If there has not been any other changes and you suspect bullying may be the cause of the distress and anxiety, it is important to try and act as early as you can.