About the Campaign
Online bullying is a contributing factor for many young people having thoughts of suicide. Over 200 schoolchildren die by suicide every year in the UK. We need everyone to be aware of the impact that online bullying can have on children and young people’s mental health.
Bullying affects young people in many different ways. It can impact on their self-esteem, emotional wellbeing, education and life outside of school. Those experiencing bullying may feel self-conscious, embarrassed, or feel that they aren’t ‘worth’ help. They may feel scared, sad or overwhelmed, and find it difficult to sleep or eat. Many young people who have been bullied find it really hard to ever feel safe or confident in anything they do, leading them to isolate themselves from others and give up the things they enjoy doing.
From calls to our helpline HOPELINE247 we know that bullying can cause many young people to feel isolated, worthless, and experience thoughts of suicide. As many as 40% of the contacts we receive from children and young people aged 11-18 involve issues around online bullying. For many, it can seem like there is no escape, that the bullying will never stop or go away, and that everyone would be ‘better off’ without them. Other contributing factors may make it harder for them to stay alive – battles with diagnosed anxiety and depression, or hearing negative voices that echo the comments made on social media.
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