Hello ladies and gents, today I’d like to talk about bullying. Seems a bit cliche, but I think this is a still a very relevant topic that needs to be addressed.

Sometimes people can just be downright mean. There are certain people who go out of their way to hurt others and thrive from their reactions. Personally I find this really sad and I feel terrible for all parties involved.

If you’re being bullied, seek attention immediately from an authoritative figure. Being mean is never acceptable but if you find yourself being emotionally or physically harmed by your peers, read on for advice.

1. Have friends back you up. Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive friends will make you feel better, you don’t need negative people in your life

2. Tell an authoritative figure. Whether that be a parent, teacher, principal, or just a trusted adult is up to you. If you don’t take action now, the bullying will escalate.

3. Take a walk in their shoes. Some people have behavioral issues because they have a bad home life or low self esteem. It takes a mature person to follow this step but seeing things from other people’s perspectives can open up a whole new world of understanding.

4. Compliment them or try to befriend them. Chances are, mean people just want a friend. You could act as a role model for them to show them how to act socially.

5. Remove yourself from the situation. If someone’s calling you a name, walk away. You don’t have to stick around to listen.

6. Confront them. Ask them why. This will force them to face the situation and consider why they do it themselves.

Overall, their comments or actions do not need to affect you. You can hold your head high and realize that what they’re saying has nothing to do with you but is rather reflective on how they feel about themselves. Try and be the bigger person by spreading love instead of hate.