Bullying is often associated with negative health and well-being outcomes. Among youth who reported experiencing at least one type of bullying monthly or more frequently in 2019, almost three in four (72%) said their lives were stressful (a bit stressful, quite a bit stressful or extremely stressful). By comparison, 59% of those who experienced bullying a few times a year and 44% of those who did not experience bullying indicated that their lives were stressful.
Youth who experienced bullying frequently (monthly or more) were also more likely than those who did not experience bullying in the past 12 months to report experiencing frequent (monthly or more) difficulties in getting to sleep (73% compared with 41%), headaches (70% compared with 42%), stomach aches (60% compared with 31%) or backaches (56% compared with 27%).
These statistics show just how deeply bullying impacts young lives, affecting both mental and physical health. This National Bullying Prevention Week, let’s commit to breaking the cycle. Stand up, speak out, and support initiatives that foster safe, respectful environments for all youth. Together, we can make a difference—let’s build a future where every young person feels safe, valued, and free to thrive.
For information on how to recognize and prevent bullying, and to learn about bullying prevention programs, click here.
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