Finland police have confirmed that the 12-year-old boy suspected of fatally shooting at a classmate was motivated by bullying. The incident has once again brought children’s mental health into the public eye.
Being bullied severely affects a child’s mental wellbeing and can even have long-term effects that show up later in life. Bullying can be verbal, emotional or physical.
With the rise of social media among school-going kids, cyberbullying, where one threatens or harasses someone else using technology has also become rampant.
It is crucial for parents to recognize the signs indicating that their child’s mental health is being affected due to bullying in school.
Changes in thought and behavior, suddenly being silent and busy with oneself, returning home with things missing and with unexplained bruises on the body.
They may also show a reluctance to go to school, sudden anger outbursts or crying spells, lack of attention in studies, loss of appetite and sleep disturbances.
To help your child, experts recommend getting help from teachers, looking the bully in the eye, gathering a group of friends for support and safety and walking away from situations when nobody is around.
Maintain open communication with your child and look out for the warning signs.