ReachOut Forums is a supportive, safe and anonymous space. Hear from others about what has helped them and share what you're going through.
Bullying happens when a person or a group of people repeatedly and intentionally use words or actions to cause distress and harm to another person’s wellbeing. It isn’t the same as a ‘normal’ conflict between people (such as having an argument or a fight) or simply disliking someone. It’s more about repeated behaviour by someone who has power or control over someone else.
What does it look like?
It can happen anywhere: in schools, at home, at work, or in online social spaces, such as text messages, emails, or posts on Instagram, Facebook or another social media site. It can be physical, verbal and/or emotional, and is really about someone intimidating or exercising control over someone else in a way that makes them feel afraid or embarrassed.
We chatted to a bunch of young people who had all experienced bullying in Australia and they all agreed on one thing – talking was the thing that helped them more than anything else.
If you're not sure who, or how, to tell someone, we've got you covered. Share your experiences anonymously on the ReachOut Forums, a safe online community of young people who support each other through tough times.
A safe way to express your feelings and anger about bullying is to write a message to the person who’s been bothering you. This is a proven technique that will help get things off your chest without complicating the situation. The trick, of course, is never to send it. So take a few minutes to write a message - and then see how many tiny little pieces you can rip it up into. Satisfying!
Check out practical tips, and hear from other young people.
Read, listen or watch content. Sign up to save your favourite ones to your personal to do list.
Take steps to feel better
Something went wrong…
Have another go please.
You've just taken a step towards helping yourself with this bullying situation.
It's proven that if you put something in writing, you're more likely to follow through.