ABSTRACT
Being bullied can seriously affect children’s mental health, particularly as there is a tendency for those who are bullied to suffer in silence and to internalise the problem. As well as lacking confidence, having poor self-esteem and being isolated and lonely, they may develop insecurity and anxiety arising from continually feeling under threat. Some may experience sleep problems, eating disorders, phobias, depression, suicidal thoughts or even post-traumatic stress. Problems of this kind can persist long after the bullying ceases and create long-term damage that can last into adulthood. Children may also develop physical illness as a result of the trauma and stress they suffer. The cost, in terms of the pupils who drop out of school, develop significant problems or attempt to kill themselves, can be considerable. There is a growing awareness of the problem. Anti-bullying policies in schools are now statutory and many schools make a real effort to address the problem. Despite this, bullying continues to cause many children a lot of suffering. Children have a right to a distress-free school environment. It is important that teachers are aware of the distress that bullying can cause and its possible long-term consequences. It is vital that they take the issue seriously and adopt strategies to address the problem in their school.
