BULLYING IN CANADA

Teasing, name-calling, hitting, spreading rumors or embarrassing someone in public; these aggressive behaviours are all forms of bullying. Bullying can have both short and long-term impacts on someone’s physical and psychological health. Victims often feel lonely, isolated and unsafe. Researchers have also shown that bullying can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and physical illness. In extreme cases, bullying can be fatal. In fact, over the past few years the media reported cases of suicide among teens who ended their life after being the target of repeated harassment at school and in cyberspace has doubled.

THE SOLUTION

I AM SOMEONE, together with bc211, have partnered to offer youth with an innovative texting tool that links them with the resources they need, how and when they want it. Youth experiencing issues with bullying may be scared and not know what to do. By sending an anonymous text message to 211, they can access non-judgmental, professional support, as well as options, information, and referrals to services in their community that can help. This service is now available throughout British Columbia