Every October, communities, schools, and families across the country observe National Bullying Prevention Month. It’s a fantastic opportunity to take a stand against bullying, a topic that’s often ignored or misunderstood.
Most important, National Bullying Prevention Month is a reminder that bullying isn’t just “kids being kids.” It’s a serious issue that can leave emotional and psychological scars.
According to StopBullying.gov, nearly 1 in 5 students reports being bullied during the school year. The consequences can be far-reaching:
- Increased anxiety and depression
- Decreased academic performance
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
For those affected, bullying doesn’t end when the school bell rings. Its impact can stretch into home life, relationships, and mental health.
Bullying Tells A Story
Children and teens are still forming their understanding of the world and themselves. Their brains are developing, their identities are fragile, and they absorb messages deeply.
Bullying doesn’t hurt only in the moment. It can embed itself into a child’s sense of self. If a young person often hears, “No one likes you,” “You’re ugly,” or “You’re stupid and weak,” it’s easy for them to start believing it. These messages can shape how they view relationships, school, and worth–not just now, but for years to come.
That’s why early intervention is so crucial. We can’t control every comment a child hears, but we can correct the story, making sure they know they are loved, valued, and seen.
Why Bullying Prevention Month Matters
National Bullying Prevention Month creates space for awareness, education, and action. It invites parents, teachers, students, and community members to look closely at how we treat one another, and to push for environments rooted in safety, respect, and empathy.
More than just posters or pledges, this month encourages us to:
- Support anyone being bullied
- Speak up when we see bullying happen
- Foster inclusive, connected communities where everyone feels like they belong
What Adults Say Makes a Difference
Whether bullying shows up as verbal insults, exclusion, physical intimidation, or cyberbullying, the message is the same: It’s never acceptable, and it’s never too late to make a difference.
Words stick, especially when they come from trusted adults. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, coach, or neighbor, what you say in the moments after bullying can become just as formative as the bullying itself.
When a child is targeted, they’re not just hurt by the act; they’re listening carefully for what the world reflects to them. A simple, steady response like, “That shouldn’t have happened to you,” or “You’re not what they say you are” can be life-changing. It interrupts the shame spiral and offers something stronger: validation and the beginning of a new story.
Luckily, adults have the power to do more than stop the behavior. We can help rewrite the message. A bullied child might start to believe they’re unworthy or unwanted. But hearing, “You’re brave for speaking up,” or “You don’t deserve to be treated like that,” gives them a foundation to rebuild their confidence and self-trust.
Your words don’t need to be perfect! They just need to be present, affirming, and safe. Remember: A child who knows they’re not alone is already making strides toward healing.
How You Can Get Involved
Here are a few meaningful ways to participate during Bullying Prevention Month:
Learn & Share Resources
Explore the PACER Toolkit or Stomp Out Bullying Help Center. Share key facts on social media, email them to school staff, or post them in your community spaces. Education is the first step toward cultural change.
Start Conversations
Talk to kids and teens about what bullying looks like and how to respond safely. Encourage them to be “upstanders,” not bystanders. Model kindness, inclusion, and listening at every age.
Partner with Local Schools
Volunteer to lead awareness activities, organize kindness campaigns, or bring in speakers to discuss empathy and mental health. Even a simple poster campaign or kindness wall can spark conversations that last beyond October.
Promote Mental Health Support
Make sure students know how to get help. Crisis Text Line is free, confidential, and available 24/7. Just text “HELLO” to 741741.
Bullying Prevention Month: The Bottom Line
Bullying thrives in silence. But when we speak up, reach out, and create space for every person to feel seen and safe, change becomes possible. This October, let’s work together to ensure that no one has to navigate bullying by themselves.
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