As I've worked with adolescents during my associateship here at Bridging Harts, I've noticed that bullying continues to rear it's ugly head. I felt it appropriate, since school has been back in session for the last month or so, to offer up some guidance for parents to utilize in order to get out in front of it before it starts to impact daily functioning. Recognizing the warning signs that a adolescent may be experiencing bullying at school is essential for providing support and intervention. Bullying can have serious and long-lasting effects on a young person's mental and emotional well-being. Here are some common warning signs of adolescent bullying:

1. Emotional and Behavioral Signs:

   • Sudden changes in behavior, such as becoming withdrawn, anxious, or depressed.
   • Frequent mood swings.
   • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities or hobbies.
   • Changes in eating or sleeping habits.
   • Increased aggression or irritability.
   • Expressing fear or reluctance to go to school.
   • Decline in academic performance.
   • Frequent requests to stay home from school.
   • Changes in friendships or social circles, such as losing friends or isolating themselves.

2. Social Signs:

   • Difficulty making or maintaining friendships.
   • Complaints of feeling lonely or excluded.
   • Social withdrawal or avoidance of group activities.
   • Sudden loss of previously close friends.

3. Cyberbullying Indicators:

   • Spending excessive time online or on social media.
   • Upset reactions to text messages, emails, or social media comments.
   • Secretiveness about online activities.
   • Changes in online friend lists or blocking/unfriending peers.

4. Avoidance Behaviors:

   • Avoiding specific areas of the school or certain routes to school.
   • Attempts to skip school or leave early.
   • Frequent visits to the school nurse or counselor.

5. Loss of Personal Belongings:

   • Frequently losing or misplacing items, possibly due to theft or intimidation.

6. Self-Esteem Issues:

   • Expressing negative self-talk or self-doubt.
   • Sudden or unexplained decrease in self-esteem and self-confidence.

7. Physical Health Complaints:

   • Frequent complaints of psychosomatic symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or sleep disturbances.

8. Regression in Developmental Milestones:

   • Reverting to behaviors typical of a younger age, such as bedwetting or thumb-sucking.

If you suspect that an adolescent is experiencing bullying, it's essential to take their concerns seriously and provide them with a supportive and safe environment in which to discuss their experiences. Encourage open communication and consider involving school authorities, teachers, counselors, and parents to address the issue effectively. Timely intervention and support can help prevent further harm and promote the well-being of the adolescent.

Thank you for reading and I hope to hear from you soon! Take care