With the explosion of social media, messaging apps, and online gaming, kids and teens are more connected than ever. But with this increased connectivity comes a serious issue: cyberbullying. It can be just as harmful, or even worse, as in-person bullying as it follows kids everywhere they go and the bully may be anonymous online. It can happen in their homes, their bedrooms, and their phones.
Cyberbullying has been on the rise in recent years, and its effects on mental health are profound. If your child or teen is being targeted online, the impact can be long-lasting, leading to anxiety, depression, and even more severe mental health issues. As a parent, it’s critical to understand how cyberbullying affects your child and what you can do to help them.
What Is Cyberbullying?
Cyberbullying is the use of digital platforms—social media, texts, online gaming, or messaging apps—to harass, threaten, or embarrass someone. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can happen 24/7 and reach a wide audience quickly, making it more difficult to escape.
Common forms of cyberbullying include:
Spreading rumors or lies online
Sending hurtful, threatening, or abusive messages
Posting embarrassing photos or videos without permission
Excluding someone from online groups or activities
Impersonating someone online to cause harm
While bullying of any kind can be emotionally damaging, cyberbullying adds an extra layer of complexity because it can feel like there’s no way to escape it.
The Impact of Cyberbullying on Mental Health
Cyberbullying can leave kids and teens feeling helpless, isolated, and afraid. Research has shown that children who experience cyberbullying are at a greater risk for developing serious mental health problems. Here are some of the most common mental health effects:
Anxiety and Depression
Studies have shown that victims of cyberbullying are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Constant harassment or public humiliation online can lead to feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and isolation.
Low Self-Esteem
When children are constantly put down online or compared to others, their self-esteem can take a major hit. Cyberbullying can cause them to doubt their worth and abilities, impacting how they see themselves in the world.
Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior
In extreme cases, cyberbullying has been linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially when children feel they have no escape. It’s vital to take any signs of distress seriously and seek help immediately if you believe your child is in danger.
Academic and Social Struggles
Children who are bullied online often withdraw from social activities and may avoid school or other places where they feel vulnerable. This can lead to poor academic performance and a lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy.
Did You Know?
A study from the National Center for Education Statistics found that about 16% of students report being cyberbullied, with older students experiencing higher rates.
According to the Cyberbullying Research Center, victims of cyberbullying are nearly twice as likely to attempt suicide compared to their peers who haven’t been bullied.
What Parents Can Do: Steps to Address Cyberbullying
Have Open Conversations
Talk to your kids regularly about what’s happening online. Ask them about their social media use, who they’re interacting with, and if they’ve encountered any mean or hurtful behavior. Make sure your child knows they can come to you if they experience cyberbullying. Some conversation starters might include:
“Have you seen anyone being bullied online?”
“What do you do if someone sends you a mean comment?”
“How does it make you feel when people post hurtful things?”
Monitor Social Media Use
While it’s important to give your child some privacy, keeping an eye on their social media use can help you identify any red flags. Many social media platforms have privacy settings, so make sure they’re using them, and check in on what they’re sharing publicly.
Teach Your Kids How to Respond
Help your kids understand how to handle cyberbullying if it happens. Some ideas include:
Not respond to mean comments: Engaging with bullies can often escalate the situation.
Block or mute bullies: Most platforms allow users to block or report harmful accounts.
Save evidence: Screenshots and saved messages can be useful as proof if the bullying escalates.
Involve the School or Other Authorities
If cyberbullying is affecting your child’s mental health or safety, don’t hesitate to get their school involved. Many schools have anti-bullying policies that extend to online behavior. In severe cases, it may be necessary to report the issue to local authorities.
Promote a Healthy Online Environment
Encourage your child to build a positive online presence by following accounts that promote kindness, self-esteem, and healthy living. Help them understand that they should always treat others with respect online, even if they don’t agree with someone.
When to Seek Professional Help
Cyberbullying can have serious, long-lasting effects on a child’s mental health. If your child is showing signs of anxiety, depression, or withdrawing from social interactions, it might be time to seek professional help.
At our Colorado psychiatry clinic, we specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, and the emotional toll of cyberbullying. We provide compassionate care through virtual mental health evaluations and medication management. We provide referrals to therapists to help children process what's going on in their lives and build non-medicinal coping skills to self-soothe bothersome behaviors. Contact us today to learn more!
Additional Resources for Families
https://www.stopbullying.gov: Offers resources on preventing and addressing cyberbullying.
https://coloradocrisisservices.org: A 24/7 service for Colorado residents that are in mental health. Their phone number can be accessed via phonecall or text.
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