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Home   : Bullying   : Get help for bullying   : If you see someone being bullied

If you see someone being bullied

girl being comforted by her friend.

Lots of us see someone being bullied at some point. It may be easier to just stand by, or even to laugh. But if you are brave and kind, you can be a real hero. Remember, the person being bullied may feel awful and all alone.

Here are some ways you can make a difference when you see bullying:

  • Don’t join in or watch bullying. Bullies love an audience. Walk away, and see if you can get others to leave, too. Of course, don’t just abandon someone who is in real danger. Go get help.
  • Stop any rumors. If someone tells you gossip, don’t pass it on to others. You wouldn’t want someone spreading rumors about you!
  • Stand up for the person. If it feels safe, defend the person being bullied. Bullies often care a lot about being popular and powerful. If you make the bullying seem uncool, the bully may stop.
  • Tell an adult. If you feel uncomfortable telling an adult, ask the adult to keep your comments private.
  • Encourage the bullied person to talk to an adult. Offer to go with them.
  • Offer support. Ask if the person is okay. Be friendly the next day. You can make a big difference just by showing you care.

When you help someone who’s being bullied, you may also help yourself. It can feel great to support someone in need and to stand up for what you believe!

Just watching someone being bullied can be very upsetting. Kids who see bullying may be more likely to have problems like skipping school, feeling anxious or depressed, or using drugs and alcohol. Adults can work to stop bullying and can help you handle your feelings, so ask for help.

Check out the video below on how some kids feel when they see bullying.

 

Content last reviewed April 15,2014
Page last updated August 15, 2014

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