(Photo courtesy of Thomas Park)
Being a teenager is a time of discovery, excitement, and sometimes, challenges. It’s a phase where you’re figuring out who you are, building friendships, and dreaming about your future. But along with all the great things that come with being a teen, there can also be some tough moments—like dealing with cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying is when someone uses technology, like social media, text messages, or websites, to hurt or embarrass another person. It can be mean comments, rumors, or even excluding someone from online groups. What makes cyberbullying especially hard is that it can happen 24/7, and it feels like there’s no escape.
But here’s the good news: you are not alone, and there are things you can do to take back control and rise above it.
What Can You Do?
- Remember Your Worth: First and foremost, know that no one can define your worth but you. Bullies often try to tear others down because they’re dealing with their own insecurities. Their words don’t reflect who you are; they reflect what they’re going through. Stay strong in knowing you are valuable, loved, and unique.
- Talk to Someone You Trust: Whether it’s a parent, a teacher, or a friend, sharing what’s happening can make a huge difference. Sometimes, just talking about it can lift a huge weight off your shoulders. Plus, the people who care about you can offer support, advice, and help you figure out the next steps.
- Don’t Engage: It’s tempting to respond to a mean comment or a nasty message, but often, engaging just gives the bully more power. Instead, take a deep breath and resist the urge to reply. You can block the person, mute the conversation, or report the behavior to the platform. Remember, your silence speaks louder than any response.
- Focus on the Positives: It can be easy to get caught up in the negative things people say, but try to focus on the positives in your life. Spend time with friends who lift you up, dive into hobbies you enjoy, or do something kind for someone else. Positive actions can boost your mood and remind you that there’s so much more to life than what a bully says online.
- Save Evidence: If the bullying is persistent, it’s important to save screenshots, messages, or any other evidence. This can be useful if you decide to report the behavior to a school official or even the police. It’s not about being vindictive; it’s about protecting yourself and potentially helping others who might be going through the same thing.
Should Parents Get Involved?
This can be a tricky question because every situation is different, and every teen has their own level of comfort when it comes to involving parents. However, parents can be a crucial part of the solution.
If you feel like the situation is getting out of hand, or if the bullying is making you feel unsafe or deeply unhappy, it’s a good idea to talk to your parents. They can provide emotional support, help you come up with a plan, and if necessary, intervene in a way that feels right for you.
Here’s an example: Imagine a teen named Mia who starts receiving hurtful messages from someone at school. At first, she tries to handle it on her own by ignoring the messages and focusing on her favorite activities, like playing soccer and drawing. But when the messages don’t stop, she begins to feel overwhelmed. Mia decides to talk to her mom, who listens without judgment and helps her come up with a plan. Together, they save the evidence, report the messages to the school, and make sure Mia has a safe space to talk about her feelings.
Mia’s mom doesn’t take over—she lets Mia take the lead—but she’s there to support and guide her through it. This is an example of how parents can be involved without taking away a teen’s sense of agency or independence.
An Inspirational Note
Cyberbullying can be tough, but it doesn’t define you. You are so much more than what someone says online. And even though it might not feel like it now, this experience can make you stronger. It can teach you resilience, empathy, and the importance of kindness.
There are countless stories of people who’ve gone through similar challenges and have come out the other side more confident, more compassionate, and more determined to make a positive difference in the world. Remember, the power to rise above lies within you. Surround yourself with people who care about you, stay true to who you are, and don’t let anyone dim your light.
In the end, you’re not just surviving—you’re thriving. And that, in itself, is a victory.
