In recent years, cyber bullying has been on the rise, in ways we’ve never seen before. While this is not really news to anyone, what is making cyber bullying a growing problem is exacerbated by the fact that victims are almost two times more likely to commit suicide than kids not bullied online. Interestingly, even online bullies themselves are found to be one and a half times more likely to commit suicide than other kids.

This statistic is distressing, but unfortunately a sad part of our reality. With 53% of children in the uk owning a phone by the tender age of 7, It’s no wonder cyber bullying is becoming a new societal norm. Nowadays, it’s easy to get on a device and offload all of your thoughts, feelings and opinions online (not matter how outlandish and controversial they might be). People also don’t have to worry about facing any repercussions because you can disassociate yourself from your online persona by the click of a button.

Now if we as a society don’t try to put an end to bullying, the effects can be irreversible ,especially on a young person. Bullying can cause poor school attendance and truancy, loss in appetite, trouble focusing, difficulty developing and maintaining relationships and even possible mental illness or self esteem issues down the line.

What can we do to end bullying: With the second week of November being anti-bullying week, it’s a perfect opportunity to raise awareness about the subject of bullying- particularly in schools where it is most prevalent. Companies like Leeds United doing their bit in showing support for anti-bullying is what keeps the topic relevant. Furthermore, by schools in Leeds providing assemblies and resources for bullying victims it makes it a less scary topic to talk about.