It’s hard to believe that we must continue to deal with bullying.  You’d think we’d have evolved past that by now.  Unfortunately, it still exists and may actually be getting worse.  And who can wonder?  With so many public figures engaging in the behavior, and with it constantly coming at us through television and the internet, trying to instill a different thought process in our youth (and adults) is difficult.

These days bullying goes beyond shoving people or knocking books out of hands.  In many ways the physical aspect is almost easier to deal with.  At least the confrontation is face-to-face.  Today, with access to social media, kids and adults can engage in anonymous harassment that can, and does, lead to lifelong struggles for those targeted.   It’s no secret, either, that the number of youth committing suicide because of bullying rises each year.

Another aspect seldom talked about is that individuals who’ve engaged in mass violent events (shootings/stabbings) were often bullied.  We need to do more than just shake our heads in sadness.  Hopefully, someday, society will better address the underlying causes of bullying and its consequences.

Thankfully, there are always kindhearted people out there who help diminish the effects of bullying.  If you’re being subjected to bullying, search for them.  Seek them out.  Even if all they can do is listen, that often means a lot when you’re struggling with the mental aspects around bullying.  And if you’ve been physically injured, and are away from your usually safe environment, they can hopefully see that you get the assistance you need.

Final thoughts?  If you’re being bullied, seek the help of your parents or a trusted adult.  If you’re bullying, stop.  Just stop.  Ask yourself why you feel the need to do so.  And don’t make excuses or try to deny your actions.  You know you’re doing it.  If you need help to adjust your behavior, seek it. Bullying can only be addressed if it is exposed to daylight.  If it remains hidden in the dark corners of our existence, it will forever fester and grow.  If you observe bullying, step in and stop it.  Of course, be mindful of your own safety.  But if at all possible, don’t just walk by or ignore it.  Do your part to help end the cycle.