There is not just one type of person that gets bullied.  Bullying doesn’t happen only to kids that are “unpopular,” but it affects even kids that are smart, funny, popular, and seem to have everything going for them.  If you are being bullied, it doesn’t mean you are less of a person, so don’t let a bully make you feel that way.  You deserve respect just like anyone else. 

They may be acting that way because they are so insecure about themselves that the only way they can get attention is by making other people feel bad.  Have you ever thought about asking one of them if there is a particular reason they don’t like you?  Chances are, it’s not personal, it’s just that they are not happy with themselves and have to treat other people badly to feel better about themselves.  Remember that’s their problem not yours.  Focus on the people around you that are good friends.  Ignore it if they roll their eyes at you and act as if you don’t even see it.  If you get put in a group with any of them, quietly ask the teacher if you can switch groups.  At lunch, don’t sit with them.  Sit with people that treat you well.  Also, get involved in activities at school that will allow you to meet other people to hang out with inside and outside of school.

Remember that nobody can make you feel bad about yourself unless you let them.  Stay strong and hold your head up high. Nobody is better than you.

Sometimes it helps to talk to someone other than your parents or friends about how you feel.  You can always call our teen crisis hotline anytime to talk to a crisis counselor.  We can be reached by calling 1-800-448-3000.  It’s free to call and we’re here 24/7.  You don’t have to go through this alone!

Katie, Counselor