I've always been bullied, and had my way to deal with it. Whether it was blogging about it, holding it in, or reporting it, I knew how to handle myself. Middle school was the hardest time for me. I think that's when people really start to acknowledge social differences and isolating those who stand out in any way. And then comes the harassment in all forms; cyber-bullying, physical bullying, verbal bullying.
All through elementary school, we are taught not to bully, because it's bad and mean; now as a high school Sophomore, I've been taught that bullying can lead to self-harm, depression, suicide and vast arrays of mental instability. But in middle school, and certainly now, I don't think people realized how much bullying actually affects the victims.
I don't mean to call anyone out, but my brother is harassed at school and afraid to tell administration because he fears it will only get worse or make it harder for him to fit back in after everything is said and done. And I don't blame him. He's being pushed to the edge. He's stressed that he's no longer good enough to make my parents proud or get good enough grades. He's worried girls will never like him because he's not rich enough or handsome enough. Why? Because he's belittled and berated every single day, and he can't catch a break. "Toughen up"? I think it's pretty tough, already, to sit through 6 classes a day with people who hate you. I think it's tough to not have anyone to talk to about it, because everyone judges you. I think it's tough to deal with bullying on top of your own issues. My brother is one of the toughest kids I know. He keeps his grades up, does sports, has a social life and deals with all the struggles in his life with a smile on his face. He's so much like me and he doesn't even realize. I love him so much, and I cannot believe or stand the way he's being treated by his teammates, classmates, and "friends." I don't understand how things like this go unnoticed and un-cared for when 14% of students have considered suicide and over 7% have attempted it.
I know you might not think things like this don't involve you, but I'm so tired of seeing people I hold so close to me be so hurt by bullies. So please find a way to help, whether it means reporting an instance of bullying (it doesn't make you WEAK), helping someone recieve help for being bullied, or simply being there for those who need it. You can make a difference (cheesy, but true).
Thanks for reading this, you guys. You're awesome (and I'm always here for you, so send me a message, if need be.)
xoxo,
Marjean ♥
