By Jennifer Bowman
Bullying doesn’t cause depression, but it can be a factor, says Julie Pohlman-Brogee. It can cause huge anxieties.
Signs of risk:
- easily discouraged
- few social ties or supports in or out of school
- difficulty building positive relationships with others
- lack a sense of belonging
- don’t consider themselves to have strengths
- not supported in mastering challenges (give up easily)
- Spending more time alone
- Poorer marks
- Weaker social relationships
Qualities that will reduce likelihood of being bullied:
- Believe in themselves
- Understand they’re not alone
- Have at least one good friend
- Know how to join a group – and how to get out of a group when it no longer serves them
- Strong sense of self
One healthy adult in a child’s life can help to build resilience, said Brogee.
Main story: High schools join together for anti-bullying play [1]