Mental illness as an effect of bullying: What do we know?

By Gianna Akter ’25

Take a moment to envision a student in the back corner of a classroom, eating completely alone. The room, however, is not empty. Ahead of this student stands another large group of people, having fun and joking with one another. A member of this group takes notice of the student eating in the back, and a malicious thought enters their mind. That member proceeds to express their thoughts aloud in the form of a comment;  “I can’t believe some people are so gross that no one sits near them.” The student can hear them but chooses not to say anything as the group exchange glances with each other, staring at the student, and laughing. While this is just one example, a student like this one has had numerous experiences of being “subtly” mocked. Additionally, though this encounter may seem tolerable enough to an outsider, the effect that it has on adolescents negatively impacts mental health in various ways, including causing mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression.  

Issues surrounding bullying must be taken more seriously because of the long-term effect it has on mental health. Most people assume that bullying has more to do with physical harassment than psychological abuse. As a result, bullying situations that are not involved with physical assault are often ignored or not taken seriously. The long-term impact of this on victims can be much more damaging than if they were physically assaulted. For example, “Bullying can cause feelings of rejection, exclusion, isolation, low self-esteem, and some individuals can develop depression and anxiety as a result. In some cases, it can even develop into Acute Stress Disorder or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder” (Warner). It makes sense that when people deal with constant insults or “subtle” attacks, they would begin to believe it and develop low self-esteem. Over time, this could evolve into much more severe cases of mental illness. For instance, this article states, “As noted, depression can develop as a result of bullying and can have a lasting impact on a child” (“Bullying and Depression: The Long-term Effects on Kids and Teens”). This proves that bullying results in mental health conditions such as depression, and illustrates that the effects of bullying are long-lasting. Thus, bullying needs to be taken seriously. 

Even though the bullying situation seems overwhelming, and some might feel as though there is nothing they can do, there are viable solutions available. When it comes to bullying, you need intervention. This, however, doesn’t have to involve confronting a bully. It can be as simple as getting support from the community, friends, family, or others close to the person being bullied. Having and showing support creates unity and shows the person being bullied that they are not alone. For reference, Murat Eyuboglu explains, “Additionally, from an intervention point of view, increasing mental health professionals, educators, and parents’ awareness about mental health problems in children involved in bullying is crucial” (Eyuboglu et al.). If people who work in careers involving children and parents are more educated about bullying and how it works, then they can assist the situation better without accidentally making everything worse. 

Another viable solution is one such as counseling or therapy, which can treat or prevent mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression. For example, one article explains, “Therefore, to prevent victims of bullying from experiencing prolonged psychological problems, they need support such as counseling. This study aims to see the effectiveness of individual counseling using the empty chair technique in overcoming the anxiety of bullying victims” (Jannah and Wangid). With this counseling technique, two chairs are placed in the middle of the room. In one chair, the patient will sit and demonstrate “top-dog” or aggressive behavior. In the other chair, the patient will portray victimized or oppressed behavior in response. Dialogue is used to play both parties. The purpose of this exercise is for the counselee to acknowledge their feelings and the bullying situation; also, to recognize the third party who is not present during the session (the bully). This is just one of many therapy and counseling techniques, the majority of which depend on the patient’s personal issues and needs. This demonstrates how counseling is a viable option for people who experience mental illness as a result of bullying. 

If the solution is carried out, then the lives of adolescents will greatly improve. Imagine a person who has experienced severe bullying, finally breaking free from the binds of intimidation and torment. They will have support from friends, family, and others in the community, and may even solve the whole problem entirely by confronting the people who are harassing them. If they receive proper therapy or counseling, they can be rid of any lasting effects of bullying as well. However, if the solution is not carried out, it could endanger the adolescent’s mental health and social life. Dalhee Yoon states, “At age 15, adolescent depression was measured using modified Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale; trouble at school was measured using modified Add Health In-School Questionnaire; and self-reported substance use was used” (Yoon et al.). Based on the article, bullied individuals developed psychological issues that were never treated. Instead, they self-medicated via substances such as drugs or alcohol. This also indicates that bullied students lacked participation in school afterward due to an absence of intervention. If we don’t act now, this is the life these struggling students will be forced to suffer with. 

You can make a difference. Whether it be by supporting a bullied friend or family member, or simply by spreading awareness and educating yourself, your actions will have a huge positive impact to contradict the negative influence bullying has. Even if you just provide resources and where to find them, that goes a long way. McLean Hospital provides, “Resources available for those suffering from bullying/with depression and suicidal thoughts due to bullying, such as 988, which is the National Suicide Prevention Hotline” (Mass General Brigham). If you know anyone who is struggling mentally as an effect of bullying, this is a great resource for them to express themselves. Essentially, bullying negatively affects mental health, results in mental health conditions such as depression, and explains that the effects of bullying are long-lasting. However, hope is not lost, and there are solutions and actions we can all take to improve the environment of those around us. These solutions include educating ourselves, supporting our friends and family, and providing those struggling with resources and counseling. If we are supportive and kind to that student eating in the back of the class, we can make a world of difference.