Bullies are no Bull

Bullying is an issue that has been around forever. Many kids are bullied and I was one of them. Lets just say that I did not fit the physical mold.

Bullies are a major issue in our schools and neighborhoods. Most people ignore bullies as long as no physical threat or damage is done. The reality of bullying is that it is doing major damage. Teen Health defines bullying as, a person being picked on repeatedly by a person or group with more physical or social standing.

When you bully someone repeatedly it begins to take a physical toll on that person. They are living in a constant state of fear that creates physical, mental and emotional turmoil. People that are bullied can experience digestive problems, anxiety issues, depression, some even turn to suicide.

If you are being bullied experts suggest; talking to someone about it,  ignoring the bully, appearing confident and making sure you know who your “true friends” are. If you are the one bullying it may be due to the fact that someone has bullied you in the past. Try talking to someone who you respect, find out whats you can do to change.

A Serious Subject

One of the most painful of all issues with which one deals in life, whether directly or indirectly, is teen depression. If you are experiencing or have experienced this you know how tough it can be to shake. If you have had a family member or loved one that has dealt with this issue the pain is very real to you also. This last week Michael Blosil, the son of Marie Osmond, took his own life after struggling with depression for years; he was 18 years old. This was a shock to all and has devastated his family.

According to teendepression.org, “About 20 percent of teens will experience teen depression before they reach adulthood.” Other startling statistics are that “30 percent of teens with depression also develop a substance abuse problem,” and that “untreated depression is the number one cause of suicide, the third leading cause of death among teenagers.”

If you are suffering from depression, understand that you do not have to deal with it alone. Get help. Tell somebody. Tell a parent, a counselor, a teacher, or somebody that can help. If you are concerned about someone who may be dealing with depression, look for these warning signs.