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October is National Bullying Prevention Month and is, therefore, dedicated to recognizing the impact and harm that bullying can have on children of all ages.

Within the United States, approximately 1 in 3 students say they have been bullied at school.² Bullying can happen in many locations and contexts.² Children who experience bullying are likely to experience negative physical, school, and mental health issues.¹

Bullying is defined as follows:³

• Unwanted aggressive behavior
• Observed or perceived power imbalance
• Repetition of behaviors or high likelihood of repetition

Bullying that occurs online is considered cyberbullying. Cyberbullying involves communication that is threatening or harassing and includes spreading rumors through electronic exchanges, such as by phone, emails, chat rooms, instant messaging, multimedia messaging apps, and online posts.²

Solutions to stop bullying are not simple and need to involve entire communities, including families, school administrators, teachers, and staff. By joining efforts, forging connections, and providing education about bullying, a culture built on respect can be achieved.⁴

You might be wondering what you can do to help and how to get started. Check out the campaign taking place this month! STOMP Out Bullying provides a schedule for the month of October that includes anti-bullying activities that involve the whole community!

Let’s use this month to rally together and educate others about the harmful effects of bullying!