Bullying Makes Me Sick

Peaceful Children

Child At Peace

Being bullied hurts – and it can raise children’s risk of anxiety and depression.  And – it can take a toll on their physical health – too!!

A study in the journal of Pediatrics found that grade-schoolers who report being bullied make more trips to the school nurse than other students.  Some of these visits involve injuries from conflicts.  But – many are due to complaints such as headaches – stomach-aches – vomiting – and fever.  This makes me mad!!

Researchers say that stress is the likely culprit behind these symptoms.  And – the strain from being bullied repeatedly might wear down a child’s immune system – making him or her more prone to illness.  These visits could also be an escape strategy for children who seek a safe place to go.

And as it turns out – children who behave like bullies may be stressed kids – too.  They also tend to see the school nurse more frequently – according to the study…

Talk About It  –  parents should consider frequent trips to the school nurse a red flag – researchers say.. Talk with your child – he or she may be too scared or embarrassed to bring bullying up.  Let you child know that you want to help.

Be Willing To Act – It’s important that parents take bullying seriously.  In some cases – it may lead to a  life-threatening situation.  Visit this valuable resource – www.stopbullying.gov. …..

and as always you must live well to be well…to your personal wellness….

don

Team Destiny