Bullying
What is bullying? Bullying is when someone (or a group of people) repeatedly and intentionally uses their power to hurt, scare, or exclude someone else. It can happen in person or online, and it’s never the fault of the person being bullied.
Bullying can take many forms, and it’s something that affects many young people in Australia. Whether it’s happening at school, in the workplace, or through cyberbullying on social media and gaming platforms, the impact on your mental health is real. Experiencing bullying can lead to feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, or isolation, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Understanding what bullying is, including the different types and signs, is the first step toward making it stop. If you’ve witnessed bullying happening to someone else, or if you’re worried that you’ve been called a bully yourself, there are clear steps you can take to change the situation and find support. No matter what’s happening, your safety and wellbeing come first.
If you’re in immediate danger or need urgent support, please head to our urgent help page.
Want to talk to someone who gets it? Our peer workers are here for a free, anonymous conversation. Check out ReachOut PeerChat to chat about whatever’s on your mind.
What is bullying? Types, signs and how to cope
Cyberbullying: dealing with trolls and online bullying
I've been called a bully: how to reflect, change and get support
I've witnessed bullying: how to be an upstander and help
Workplace bullying & harassment: spotting signs and getting support
Frequently asked questions about bullying
Bullying is an ongoing misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal, physical, or social behaviour that intends to cause physical, social, or psychological harm. Learn more about what bullying is.
The main types of bullying include physical bullying (hitting, pushing), verbal bullying (insults, teasing), social bullying (spreading rumours, excluding someone), and cyberbullying (harassment via digital devices). Read more about the different types of bullying.
Bullying can lead to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. It can also make it hard to concentrate at school or work, impact your overall confidence, and lead to avoidance or withdrawal. There are things you can do to cope with bullying, including learning how to get support if you’re being bullied.
If you’re being bullied, remember that there are people you can talk to, like a trusted adult, teacher or manager. You can also contact services like Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) or ReachOut PeerChat to talk to someone who understands and can help you figure out your next step. If you are being bullied at work you can contact your EAP provider, as well as consulting the organisation Bullying No Way!. Learn how to get support for bullying.
Bullying is unfortunately common, with research suggesting that about one in four Australian students experience bullying at some point during their school years. Read more about how common bullying is among young people in Australia.