On February 25th for our fourth consecutive year, students at Rhodes Wellness College will participate in an important anti-bullying initiative called Pink Shirt Day. In 2007, two Nova Scotia high school students witnessed a younger student being bullied for wearing a pink shirt. That evening they went to a local discount store and purchased 50 pink shirts and distributed them to fellow classmates. The next day, there was a “sea” of pink shirts as many students wore a pink shirt to send a message to the bully. Since then, Pink Shirt Day as an anti-bullying initiative is held around the world. Click here www.youtube.com to see our anti-bullying video. Bullying is a problem, not only in schools but in work places and homes as well. Bullying can take many forms, including physical assault, gossip, social exclusion, and cyberbullying. If you think you may be, or have experienced serious bullying in the past, here are some things to do and be aware of:
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Tell someone: Most individuals who are bullied think there is something wrong with them. Experiencing ongoing bullying destroys self confidence. One of the most important steps is to talk about your experiences. A trusted friend or even a therapist can help.
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It’s not your fault: There is not something wrong with you. Bullying is a slippery slope. You may not realize you are being bullied until you already have some unpleasant symptoms.
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Rage, anxiety, terror and even post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)are possible outcomes of repeated bullying. This does not mean you will always feel this way. You may need to find some outlet for your intense feelings.
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You can learn to set standards so that you are never again subject to bullying. This requires assertive communication. You can stand up for yourself without becoming rude or abusive. Simple techniques involve calmly telling the bully that you will take action if he or she repeats the behaviour.
If you think you may need to talk through some of these experiences, Rhodes College has an open drop in confidential student counselling clinic on Fridays from 12:30 until 2:00. Your first session is always free. Call 604-708-4416 to set up an appointment.
