Stronger Together: Supporting Your Child Through Bullying and Mental Health Challenges

Author: Dr. Therese Garrett, Behavioral Health Medical Director for WellCare of North Carolina

Each school year brings excitement and fresh beginnings, but it can also bring challenges. According to Stopbullying.gov, more than 19% of students ages 12–18 experienced bullying during the 2021–2022 school year. That means nearly one in five students may face situations that affect their safety, confidence, and mental health.

Bullying can escalate over time. The earlier parents and caregivers recognize the warning signs, the better chance they have of protecting children from long-term harm. The start of a school year—when routines, friendships, and environments are shifting—is an especially important time to stay engaged.

Understanding Bullying in Today’s World

Bullying looks different than it used to. Forms of bullying may include:

• Physical or verbal, such as hitting, pushing, or name-calling.
• Social exclusion, where a child is left out or humiliated.
• Online harassment, or cyberbullying, through texts, social media, or group chats.

Even something dismissed as “just a joke” can cause lasting harm. Cyberbullying is especially challenging because it happens in private, making it harder for parents to see. Staying involved means knowing what platforms your child uses and keeping communication open about their digital world.

How to Recognize When Something’s Wrong

Parents and caregivers are often the first to notice when something feels “off.” Pay attention to both behavioral and emotional changes.

• Children who experience bullying may show the following signs: Avoiding school or activities they once enjoyed
• Falling grades or declining school performance
• Sudden changes in mood or friend groups
• Frequent stomachaches, headaches, or other unexplained health complaints

Children experiencing mental health challenges may show the following behaviors:

• Sadness or irritability lasting more than two weeks
• Withdrawing from friends or family
• Big changes in sleeping or eating habits
• Outbursts, mood swings, or loss of interest in hobbies
• Missing school or struggling to focus

These signs don’t always mean bullying is happening—but they do signal your child may need support.

Ways to Discuss and Help Identify Bullying

If you’re worried about bullying, these steps can make a big difference:

• Keep the conversation open. Regular check-ins show your child you’re ready to listen without judgment.
• Ask the right questions. Try: “Have you seen anyone getting picked on at school?” or “Has anyone said mean things online?”
• Reassure them. Let your child know it’s okay to feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed—and that you’re there to help.
• Normalize mental health. Talk about emotional well-being the same way you would about physical health.
• Look for patterns. If you notice repeated signs or concerning conversations, document them to share with a teacher or counselor.

What Can You Do?

You don’t have to manage this alone. Encourage your child to reach out to you or another trusted adult if they feel unsafe. If concerns continue:

• Contact your child’s teacher or school counselor.
• Use school or district reporting tools if bullying persists.
• Reach out to your pediatrician or a mental health professional if your child shows signs of depression, anxiety, or withdrawal.

The Bullying Resource Center from the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) offers helpful resources for families navigating these challenges.

Moving Forward Together

We all share the responsibility of helping children grow in safe, supportive environments. Parents and caregivers can:

• Keep conversations ongoing, so kids know they can always come to you.
• Encourage activities that build confidence and healthy friendships.
• Celebrate resilience and effort—not just outcomes.
• Partner with schools, community groups, and pediatricians to reinforce anti-bullying messages.

With open communication and strong support, children learn they are never alone—and together, we can build communities where all kids thrive.

For Additional Resources, Visit:

• Stopbullying.gov
• Bullying is Not OK: American Academy of Pediatrics
• Bullying Resource Center: American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry