Lots of teens face bullying every day, but that doesn’t make it right. You have a right to be yourself without getting bullied. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Walk away and get to a safe place
• Avoid places where bullying has happened
• Think of what you can say to someone who bullies you, and practise the line in front of a mirror. If you’re unsure about how it sounds, try bouncing it off a counsellor at Kids Help Phone : 1-800-668-6868.
• Stick with people who will stick up for you

• Talk to someone you trust, like your parents, a friend, a teacher, a counsellor or coach. Remember that confiding in someone is not the same as tattling, especially when it comes to your safety.
• Work out a plan to put an end to it, together
• Contact an authority, like a school principal or the police

• You don’t have to be clever or tough. Walking away sends a powerful message.
• Try not to lose your cool even if you’re upset
• Fighting will make it worse. Try not to stoop to the bully’s level.
• If you’ve tried a few different things to make the bullying stop, and it’s still happening, don’t give up. Talk to someone else, and keep trying.

• It’s not your fault
• It’s about the bully, not you
• You don’t deserve to be bullied. You deserve to be safe.
• It’s okay to ask for help

 

Acting like you’re not upset is really hard. Here are some tips:

• Stand up straight. Keep your head high.
• Walk with confidence, even if you have to pretend
• Use a calm voice