Alex's Answer

Hi,   

Thank you for contacting Ask Alex.  

You say that our friends keep bullying you, and you feel it is your fault. We are sorry to hear that this is happening to you. Bullying can happen to anyone and anywhere. The reasons for bullying vary but in general, a bully wants to feel they have power over others and use that power to make others feel bad about themselves. Remember being bullied is nothing to do with you, how you look or how you feel, it is always about the bully! It is never your fault.  

We would advise you to tell someone what is happening to you, someone that you trust. This can be a friend, sibling, parent, a grandparent, or another trusted adult. Don’t try and deal with bullying alone, you will feel more confident dealing with things if you have good support around you. It can be difficult to talk about bullying; if you find it too difficult or too frightening, ask a friend to support you and be with you when you talk to an adult or a person in authority about what is happening to you. You could also write down what is happening and leave it on a teacher’s desk or give it to a trusted adult. You may find this article on our website helpful: www.childline.ie/5-great-tips-on-how-to-avoid-being-affected-by-bullying/  

You can also talk to Childline, by calling 1800 66 66 66 or Childline online www.childline.ie Childline is a free confidential non-judgmental listening service for children & young people under 18 years of age. Childline is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.  

We would like to congratulate you on taking the first step towards seeking help. We hope everything works out for you, you deserve the best and to be treated well.  

Take care of yourself,  

Alex.