The Impact of Bullying and Abuse

Published: February 20, 2018
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I HAVE to let you or whoever this is know that homicidal thoughts can also come because of bullying child abuse or harassment or cruelty just so you know?
Signed: The Impact of Bullying and Abuse

Dear The Impact of Bullying and Abuse,

When we feel we can depend on others to be there for us and we feel we matter to other people it can create feelings of safety, happiness, and a healthy sense of independence. Conversely, when we experience significant cruelty from others in the form of bullying or child abuse, and especially if that cruelty is ongoing, we can feel angry, depressed, hopeless and even powerless. Dealing with these types of intensely difficult situations and emotions without any kind of help or relief can certainly lead a person to have thoughts of wanting to harm themselves or others. That is why is it so important to reach out for help if you are being bullied or abused in any way so that adults can intervene and provide you with the support and guidance you need so it does not get to that point.

TeenHealthFX is not clear why specifically you are writing in about this, but if you or someone you know is dealing with some form of bullying or child abuse then we strongly encourage you reach out to a trusted adult, such as a parent/guardian, teacher, principal, school counselor, school nurse or private therapist so you can get the help you need. It is important for an adult to intervene so the bullying or abuse is stopped, so you can get the help you need working through the thoughts and feelings that have come up for you, and so you are not alone in dealing with everything.  

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area.

If you get to the point that you are seriously considering suicide or are afraid of your impulses then you need to seek help immediately. You can call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency room. In northern New Jersey you can also call the crisis hotline from Morristown Medical Center at 973-540-0100. Outside this area call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, available toll-free 24/7. You can also use the Crisis Text Line by texting “connect” to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. This service is free and available nationwide 24/7.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

Ratings