Bullying

Overview

Bullying is repeated hurtful or intimidating behavior aimed at someone, often when there is a difference in power or status. It can be physical, verbal, or happen online. Bullying is never your fault, and help is available.

Yes, bullying is common. Many people experience it at some point in their lives, either as a child, teenager, or adult.

Anyone can be bullied regardless of age, gender, background, or ability. Children and teenagers are especially affected, but adults also face workplace bullying, and older adults may be bullied by family members, carers, or others.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling anxious, withdrawn, or afraid to go to school or work
• Unexplained bruises, cuts, or damaged belongings
• Avoiding certain people or places
• Changes in sleep, appetite, or weight
• Suddenly losing interest in hobbies and friendships
• Low mood, irritability, or talking negatively about oneself

Symptoms in children

• Coming home with missing or damaged possessions
• Crying before going to school
• Made-up excuses to avoid school or activities
• Bedwetting or trouble sleeping
• Reluctance to talk about the day
• A sudden drop in grades or attempts to miss classes

Symptoms in older adults

• Becoming quiet, confused, or fearful around a specific person
• Unexplained bruises or physical injuries
• Missing money or personal belongings
• Withdrawing from friends and activities they once enjoyed
• Developing new anxiety or depression symptoms

Causes

Main causes

• An imbalance of power — the bully may be physically bigger, older, more popular, or have authority
• The bully may act out to gain social status or feel in control
• Differences such as race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or appearance can be targeted
• Online anonymity makes it easier for people to say hurtful things
• A workplace or school culture that tolerates rudeness or discrimination

Risk factors

• Being new to a school, workplace, or neighborhood
• Being seen as different in some way
• Having fewer close friends or supporters
• Having a visible disability, learning difficulty, or mental health condition
• Low self-esteem or being socially isolated

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have injuries like cuts, bruises, or broken bones that need checking
• You feel thinking about harming yourself or ending your life
• You are having panic attacks or feeling extremely on edge

Book a routine appointment if:

• Bullying is affecting your sleep, appetite, or ability to concentrate
• You feel anxious, depressed, or constantly on edge
• You or your child are struggling to attend work or school because of bullying
• You want help with coping strategies or talking to the right person

Diagnosis

There is no medical test for bullying. Instead, a doctor, nurse, or counselor will ask about your experiences, how they are affecting you, and how you have been feeling. They will also check for physical signs like injuries or symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Tests that may be done

• Most people need no tests, but a doctor may use a short questionnaire about mood, sleep, and anxiety
• If there are physical injuries, the doctor may examine you and document what they find
• If you feel very low, the doctor may ask questions to understand your safety and mental health

What to expect at your appointment

Your appointment is confidential. A health professional will listen without judgment, ask about your safety, and offer practical advice. They may suggest follow-up appointments, counseling, or connecting with a support service in your area.

Treatment

The main treatment for bullying focuses on safety, emotional support, and building confidence. It may involve talking to a counselor, learning coping strategies, and changing the environment so the bullying stops. If anxiety or depression develops, these are treated separately with support and, if needed, medication.

Self-care at home

• Talk to someone you trust — a friend, family member, teacher, manager, or health professional
• Keep a log of what has happened, with dates and details, if it feels safe to do so
• Avoid being alone with the bully and plan safe paths or exits
• For cyberbullying, block the person, adjust your privacy settings, and report harmful messages
• Remind yourself that the bullying is not your fault and you deserve kindness

Medical treatments

A doctor may recommend talking therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to help you process what happened and rebuild your self-esteem. If you develop ongoing anxiety or depression, a doctor may discuss options for managing these, which can sometimes include medication — but this is always a personal decision made with your healthcare team.

When is surgery considered?

Not applicable.

Living with this condition

Try to keep a steady routine with meals, sleep, and activities that feel safe. Spend time with people who make you feel good about yourself. If the bullying happens at work or school, talk to a supervisor, HR representative, or school counselor about changes that could make your environment safer.

Lifestyle tips

• Aim for regular sleep times to help steady your mood
• Stay active — walking or gentle exercise can reduce stress
• Take breaks from social media if online bullying is an issue
• Practice calm breathing or relaxation when you feel overwhelmed

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet and getting regular movement can help keep your mood more stable. Try not to skip meals, and avoid relying on caffeine, alcohol, or other substances to cope.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Bullying can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and difficulty trusting others. These feelings are normal responses to being mistreated, but they are not something you should carry alone. A health professional can help you work through them.

Prevention

Bullying cannot always be prevented, but it can be reduced. Schools and workplaces with clear policies about respect and consequences for bullying tend to have fewer problems. Building conversation skills, teaching bystanders to speak up safely, and encouraging inclusive environments all help.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for bullying.

Screening programmes

There is no routine medical screening for bullying, but doctors may ask about your mood and personal safety during check-ups. This is a normal part of looking after your overall health.

Complications

If left untreated

• Ongoing anxiety, depression, or panic attacks
• Difficulty trusting others or forming close relationships
• Lower academic or work performance
• Avoidance of school, work, or social contact
• In some cases, self-harm or suicidal thoughts

Long-term outlook

With the right help, most people recover from bullying and go on to live full, confident lives. It takes time, but support from caring people and, if needed, a health professional can help you heal and build resilience.

Find support

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