Cyberbullying - Charlotte Lily and Lili

Cyberbullying. Most of us have gone through it at some point. It is the act of harassing someone online by sending or posting harmful messages, usually anonymously. Cyberbullying has become such a big, and sadly, normal, part of our lives as social media becomes more popular with teenagers. So, we asked some teens and teachers here at NCG about this issue.

What's the situation here at NCG?

Over the last one and a half years, 7 teachers (that we interviewed) at NCG have heard of or dealt with around 16 cases. 2 of these had face-to-face bullying involved in them. Yet, out of the 80 students we asked (on a survey), 30 of them have been cyberbullied. 

Telling people:

The reason why there is a difference in reported cases and non-reported cases is most likely because students don’t feel comfortable with telling someone, they don’t think they should/need to, or the bully has threatened them somehow. For example, if you tell someone (parent, teacher or a friend) you are letting them in on your life and you might feel uncomfortable sharing your conversations with someone if you think you have fuelled the bully or if there is personal stuff mentioned. This is a big issue because it means that a lot of people suffer going through cyberbullying alone.

Where can I get help?

15 students out of 18 got help when they asked. There are many ways that these people got helped, ranging from talking to teachers and parents about it to friends telling the bully to "f**k off". 

There are many positives to asking for help with your cyberbully. There are helplines that you can call such as Lifeline (0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP)), Youth Help Line (0800 37 66 33) and many more. There are also your teachers, friends, family and school counsellors you can talk to.

Stats:

• 52% of women aged 18-19 have experienced cyberbullying compared with men of the same age group, 34.5% have experienced cyberbullying

Advice:

These bits of advice are from real students and teachers.

• Ask for help, someone out there will help you even if you feel like no one will
• Try to tell someone even though it might be hard, they can help you
• Block them
• Get help and don't give up. You're stronger than them.

Messages to Cyberbullies:

• How did it make you feel to say those things about me? Did you achieve what you wanted?
• What's the point in making someone feel bad about themselves because you feel that way?
• Stop hiding behind a screen because I know you would not say that to my face
• Why did you feel like you had to make me feel completely insignificant and worthless when I had done nothing to you?

There are many cases of cyberbullying no matter where you go. If you, or one of your friends, are going through this, please seek help from one of the numbers above, a trusted adult or one of your friends. Although cyberbullying is a big thing, we can beat it together. And just know that

YOU ARE NOT ALONE!