Whether you are currently being bullied, have been bullied in the past or are affected by it in another way, many people find counselling helpful. A therapist can help you explore what is happening and your options and responses, in private and without judgement.
Bullying may have affected you at an earlier time in your life, but it may have been a factor in developing other issues such as anxiety, depression or low self-esteem.
Experiencing sustained bullying has a serious effect on the mental well-being of its victims. Individuals can become depressed, withdrawn, angry, anxious, or experience insomnia; it can even lead to suicidal thoughts. The first step on the road to recovery is not to suffer in silence, as anonymity is a bully’s greatest defence.
Recovering from the emotional damage bullying causes can take time. Victims may carry a sense of shame, anger or anxiety. Counselling and talking therapies can offer a safe, non-judgemental environment to talk through feelings, process what has happened and start to heal the psychological scars left behind.
~ Lorraine Green, MBACP (Reg), listed counsellor/therapist.