Understanding Cyberbullying & Harassment

In this day & age, most people will come across some form of Cyberbullying whilst online.

Thats why it's important to know how to best deal with & prevent Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying involves using digital platforms to send mean text messages, post hurtful comments on social media, or spread rumors through email. Unlike occasional bullying, harassment is a persistent and more severe form of abuse that can lead to serious legal consequences.

Both cyberbullying and harassment can have a significant impact on a person's mental health. It's important to understand the signs of cyberbullying and harassment, and to take steps to protect yourself online.

Signs of Cyberbullying

Decrease in Device Usage

One of the most telling signs of cyberbullying is a noticeable and sudden reluctance to use digital devices. Typically, individuals who are enthusiastic about their smartphones, tablets, or computers will abruptly show a disinterest or hesitation to engage with these devices. This shift in behavior can be quite alarming. They might avoid using their devices altogether, or if they do use them, it's with a sense of apprehension and discomfort. This change often stems from the fear and anxiety caused by the harassment they're experiencing online. It's as if the devices, once sources of entertainment and connection, have become sources of distress and dread. Recognizing this behavior is crucial because it signals that the individual is likely facing significant and harmful interactions in their digital spaces. Parents, guardians, and peers should be attentive to such changes, as they can be a clear indication that the person is being targeted by cyberbullies, making it imperative to address the situation promptly and supportively.

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Sudden Withdrawal from Social Media

Sometimes, individuals who are being bullied online take drastic measures to protect themselves from further harassment by withdrawing from social media altogether. This withdrawal can be abrupt and complete, where they suddenly deactivate or delete their social media profiles on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Such a significant change in behavior can be quite telling. Social media, which once served as a space for socializing, sharing, and expressing themselves, becomes a source of anxiety and distress, leading them to sever their connections entirely. It's crucial for parents, guardians, and even close friends to be vigilant and aware of all the social media accounts their loved ones maintain. This awareness is important because, in many cases, bullied individuals might not openly communicate their struggles, leaving their sudden disappearance from online spaces as one of the few indicators that something is seriously wrong.

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Reluctance for Activities

A person experiencing cyberbullying might exhibit a noticeable reluctance to leave the safety and comfort of their home. The home, which feels like a sanctuary, becomes a shield against the outside world's perceived threats. This behavior often extends to avoiding interactions with peers, including friends, classmates, or colleagues, as the fear of encountering further harassment or judgment can be overwhelming. Social situations that were once enjoyable might now seem daunting, causing the individual to withdraw from social engagements and activities they previously found pleasure in. This shift can be especially concerning when it involves hobbies, sports, or other interests that used to bring joy and fulfillment. The fear and anxiety stemming from online bullying can create a pervasive sense of insecurity, making the person hesitant to participate in any activity that requires stepping outside their perceived zone of safety. Recognizing these changes is crucial, as they can be subtle yet significant indicators of the deep emotional impact cyberbullying is having on the individual's daily life and overall well-being.

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Emotional Changes

Experiencing frustration and sadness can be significant indicators of online harassment. These emotions are especially noticeable when they arise in connection with the use of digital devices. Those subjected to cyberbullying commonly display signs of depression and heightened anxiety. Additionally, they may undergo emotional fluctuations, including sudden episodes of anger and uncharacteristic aggressive behavior. These mood swings reflect the deep psychological impact that online abuse can have on individuals, further complicating their emotional well-being and daily interactions.

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Unwillingness to Communicate

The demeanor of a person may become jittery and hesitant, leading them to avoid communication with acquaintances, family members, romantic partners, or coworkers. This reluctance to engage in conversation, particularly regarding topics related to social media, often stems from apprehension about potential judgments from others. Additionally, individuals may refrain from initiating discussions to avoid escalating existing complexities, particularly concerning professional dynamics and interpersonal relationships. This hesitation reflects a deep-seated concern about the repercussions of communication, indicating a broader sense of unease and apprehension in social interactions.

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Signs of Harassment

Harassment can ultimately be a number of things.The person or people harassing you could be someone you know, a neighbour, someone from your local community or a complete stranger.

For something to be deemed as harassment, there has to of been more than a single incident. If someone makes you feel:

  • Distressed
  • Humiliated
  • Threatened

This may be harassment.

How to Protect Yourself

Avoid doomscrolling

Pay close attention to how social media and online content is influencing you. How does it make you feel?

Does reading the news make you feel informed or stressed?
Does seeing photos of your friends at a party make you feel good or envious?
Do you check your phone first thing in the morning to learn about breaking news or out of pure habit?

Identifying why you are online and how it makes you feel can help you set the right personal limits.

Protect yourself and others online

Check the privacy settings on all your social media profiles.
Keep webcams covered when not in use.
Be careful when signing up to apps and services online - especially providing your full name, address or photo. If you are concerned about something you have seen or experienced online, you should report the incident on the platform in question
(remember to take a screenshot as a record) and look up safety helplines and mental health services in your country for more support.

You can help others too, by being mindful of their online experiences, recognizing the signs that a classmate, friend or even stranger, is not well or exhibiting signs of distress, and helping them get the support they need.

Choose kindness

Use social media for good, by sharing positive and supportive content and messages with your friends, family and colleagues.
For example, you could reach out to let someone know you're thinking of them or add a positive comment on a post they shared.

If you find yourself responding to a message or post with something negative, pause and consider whether you could frame it in another way or have an in-person conversation instead. If you see or receive messages or content you consider to be bullying or abusive, you should block and report it.

Words matter and it's important to think carefully about what we share. We all have the power to be kind and make someone's day!

Stay present and connected IRL

The lines between the online and offline worlds can feel increasingly blurred, making it hard to live in the present moment and satisfy our innate need for human contact.

Do you ever find yourself interrupting what you are doing so you can post it on social media, or scrolling through your friend's stories rather than calling or meeting up to see how they are doing?
It's important to try and switch off and take a break from social media every now and then and spend time with friends and family in real life too, where it's safe to do so.

Try and set yourself realistic and personal goals, for example not picking up your phone or going online for the first hour of the day (it wastes energy and trains you to absorb information unfiltered) or just before bed.

Activities such as meditation, going for a walk, or calling a friend will help provide a similar stimulation but leave you feeling more focused and relaxed.