Throughout our lives, we are always told that bullying is bad, that it is the catalyst for a flawed social and personal life. It has been implemented in elementary school curriculum, enforced through school codes of conduct, and printed on posters throughout schools. Still, bullying amongst teens is a common reason that one chooses to miss school, harm themselves, and commit suicide. But why, despite the multiple reminders that bullying is harmful, do we continue to do it?

The rise of bullying is not actually in person but online. Cyberbullying is characterized by the spreading of rumors or hateful language toward a specific person through internet platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat. The Age of the Internet has increased the confidence of bullies by giving them the advantage of hiding behind a screen. When asked, multiple people have experienced cyberbullying while in high school. Aisha Aich ‘21 says: “I knew it’s common, but words hurt. They seem to hurt more if they’re online because everyone can see them”. An anonymous source ‘19 agrees, saying “I felt targeted not only because of the false rumors but because people immediately believed them”.

Suicide and psychological illnesses such as anxiety and depression often arise because of bullying, but nothing is being done to eradicate the problem once and for all. If anyone is suffering from bullying, please tell a trusted adult about your situation and seek help. You can also click here to get more information on how to combat bullying in the situation and how to recover from it.

And, for anyone who needs to hear it: you are valid. You are special. You are a beautiful human being who deserves to shine to the world no matter what happens in your life. Don’t let someone’s words impact the important person you are.