October 2012 is National Bullying Prevention Month

BULLYING can no longer be considered "simple mischief" or "just a fact of life" that will "toughen him/her up". An alarming increase in reported cases of bullying and the recent upsurge in teen suicides following bullying abuse has brought national attention to this epidemic spreading across the USA

160,000 students miss school daily for fear of being bullied. 15-25% of USA students are bullied with some frequency

What is Bullying?
Bullying occurs when a person or a group purposefully hurts or scares another person who has a hard time defending himself/herself. This abuse can take many forms:
• Hitting, shoving, tripping
• Spreading hurtful rumors
• Teasing in a mean way/name-calling
• Sending cruel emails, texts, or instant messages
• Posting inappropriate pictures or messages on websites
• Social exclusion

Why do Teens Bully?
Most bullies want to manipulate and dominate people they think don’t fit in with everyone else. Bullies often have poor social skills and are focused on themselves, putting others down to make themselves feel more powerful. Some bullies act the way they do because they themselves have been bullied in the past.

What are the Signs of Bullying?
As a teen lives with the constant threat of being bullied, signs may become apparent:
• Dread of going to school
• Schoolwork suffers
• Stress induced health issues
• Low self-esteem
• Depression and anxiety
• Difficulty sleeping or eating
• Withdrawal from social settings

What you can do about bullying
There are ways parents can offer support when your teen is being bullied. Initiate conversation with your teen. Your teen may fear retaliation from the bully or feel humiliation in talking about being bullied. Also, document incidents of bullying as they occur. You must also report cases of bullying in writing to your teen's teachers, school counselor or principal, school resource officer (a law enforcement officer assigned to many middle schools and high schools). If needed, contact your local law enforcement agency.

Before Bullying begins
When we teach our children kindness and respect for others, we prepare them to deal justly and compassionately with people. As children are nurtured in an atmosphere of unconditional love during their younger years, they can develop a positive and healthy self image which will help them cope with life's challenges such as bullying

To live a life of harmony and love toward our fellow men is a biblical principle. The bible tells us that we should "love one another" (1 John 3:11). The bible also says "We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters" (I John 3:16)

God sent his son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins. He was raised from the dead and now offers the gift of life to all who believe in him. Place your trust in Jesus Christ today and receive him as your savior.