October is National Bullying Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about bullying. Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior that can happen at any age, including among school-aged children. Both children who are bullied and those who bully others may experience negative physical, social, emotional, academic, and mental health issues.
Bullying tactics can include making threats, spreading rumors, attacking someone physically or verbally, or intentionally excluding someone from a group. Bullying that takes place through digital devices like cell phones, computers, and tablets is known as cyberbullying.
What can parents do?
Parents and caregivers play a key role in responding to and preventing bullying. In fact, talking directly about bullying with your children is a crucial step to help prevent it. Knowing how to talk to your children about bullying can be difficult. Here are some resources to help you prepare for these important conversations with your children:
- Learn about the warning signs that may indicate your child is involved in bullying.
- Educate yourself about how to prevent bullying.
- Download KnowBullying, a free mobile app from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, for tips on talking to your children about bullying.
- Visit the Department of Health and Human Services Stop Bullying website for educational resources about bullying and for more information on recognizing and preventing cyberbullying.
Your Employee Assistance Program is Here to Help
Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides free and confidential support to you and your family members who may be experiencing bullying. Help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information, contact your Component EAP or send an email to worklife@hq.dhs.gov