To this day, I can remember the countless moments when I could have stood up and helped. Don’t forget these things:

1. You are more powerful than you think – Oftentimes (not all the time) we think that if we get involved, we will be hurt or make the situation worse. This is negative inner dialogue that keeps you locked in a powerless position. If you were the victim, would you want help?

2. Don’t make the victim think you’re ok with it – By not acting when you see someone being bullied, mentally the victim can start thinking that what is happening to him/her is ok. Bullying is unjust. Don’t support the idea that the victim will continue to be treated unjustly.

3. It’s ok to tell someone else – You can tell a person in power that bullying is happening. If you insist on remaining anonymous, your request should be automatically granted. Tell a teacher, administrator, supervisor, anyone in a position to address the behavior. Get the victim the help he or she needs.

4. Open up to the victim – The least that you can do is let the victim know that he or she has a friend. There is power in numbers, and if you can break out of your shell and reach out to the victims around you, you will change their lives in ways you never thought possible.

Picture By Symic

By JP Butler