This has got to be one of the saddest stories I’ve heard. An 8 year old boy committed suicide because of bullying.
This poor young boy felt as though he had no other options and was defeated.
As parents we need to do whatever we can to protect our children. Before your children begin the school year, ask the school about their bullying policy. Work with your PTA to make sure that schools treat bullying as violence and that the school needs to be accountable for stopping bullying. Understand their programs to prevent bullying and promote safe school environments. Parents need to have an open dialogue with their children and help them identify when they or someone else is being bullied.
It’s very important to recognize the signs of bullying.
Youth who experience persistent bullying can develop signs of depression like sadness, isolation, poor concentration and sleeping problems. These symptoms can affect their relationships and school performance.
Many children do not recognize or speak up about their emotional needs.
Make sure to reach out and get them help when you see these signs. Be sure to encourage your children to express their feelings clearly, stand up for themselves and others when they witness bullying. Onlookers are just as guilty as the bully themselves.
Hopefully with these tips we can help a child and let him know that suicide is not the answer.
