Bullying Negative Impact On Students 

As a psychologist and student counselor, i have realized that ‘bullying’ is unfortunately extremely common in our society. Last week, a 13-year old suffering from clinical depression, visited my clinic and exclaimed: ” A lot of people on my WhatsApp group boo at me and call me nasty names!” I told her to inform her teacher about this form of bullying, so she could issue an official warning. However, my patient stubbornly refused to do so, stating: ”Telling the teacher will only make matter worse; my classmates will think I’m a cry baby and tease me even more.”

Contrary to what many of you may think, bullying is not only restricted to the playground. I have treated many adults, both men and women, who developed acute psychological disorders due to workplace bullying. Case in point: One of my patients, a 45-year old banker, suffering from insomnia and panic attacks, attributed his deteriorating health to a hostile work environment. ”My team members make fun of everything, from what I am wearing to what i bring for lunch. I used to respond and heated arguments would follow , but now i have stopped reacting; i feel so helpless and demotivated.” My advice to him (and to everyone who is suffering from emotional abuse) was: ” Avoidance is not going to stop the bullying. If you let it continue, it will start affecting your performance and even your self-esteem.”

Instead of confronting people who like to throw their weight around, i recommend confiding in a figure of authority who you believe will be impartial and sympathetic to your situation, and has the power and sensitivity to stop the bullying. Consider joining a support group and talking to others who have experienced similar situation; this will instil hope and confidence in your ability to stand up for in your ability to stand stand up for yourself.

By Samrah Humayun. The writer is a student sounsellor and has a degree in psychology.

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