Standing Up to Bullying
A visual guide to safe and effective responses when bullying happens
Anger ManagementInfographicFree Resource
Standing Up to Bullying
A visual guide to safe and effective responses when bullying happens
Bullying can feel overwhelming, but there are proven strategies that help you stay safe and protect your well-being. Research shows that young people who use a combination of assertive communication, social support, and emotional regulation cope more effectively with bullying. The steps below give you a clear plan to follow.
1
Stay Calm
Take a slow, deep breath before reacting. Bullies often want to see you get upset. Staying calm keeps you in control and shows that their words do not define you.
2
Use Confident Body Language
Stand tall with your shoulders back. Make brief eye contact and speak in a steady voice. Even if you feel nervous inside, confident body language signals that you are not an easy target.
3
Walk Away When Safe
You do not owe a bully a response. Whenever it is safe to do so, calmly walk away. Removing yourself from the situation takes away the audience the bully is looking for.
4
Use an Assertive Response
If walking away is not possible, respond with a brief, firm statement such as 'Stop. That is not okay.' Avoid insults or threats, which tend to escalate the situation.
5
Tell a Trusted Adult
Reporting is not the same as tattling. Adults can intervene in ways that keep everyone safer. Talk to a parent, teacher, counselor, or coach. If the first adult does not help, tell another one.
6
Lean on Your Support Network
Spend time with friends and family who make you feel valued. Social connection protects your self-esteem and reduces the emotional impact of bullying. You are not alone.
Remember: being bullied is never your fault.
You deserve to feel safe at school, online, and everywhere else.
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