Sometimes as a Savvy Auntie you are the only trusted advisor your nieces or nephews can confide in.  So it’s important to know about a new study published in Pediatrics that looks at the health risks bullying poses.

Kids who are chronically picked on can have not only mental health consequences but also physical health problems too.  Researchers looked at over 4000 children grades 5 through 10 and assessed their mental and physical health as well as reports of being bullied.

The longer the bullying occurred the worse health problems arose.  Aside from depressive symptoms and low self-esteem these children reported physical symptoms too. Often kids can complain of headaches, backaches and stomachaches. They may complain of problems sleeping suddenly. The study found these chronically bullied kids had problems doing everyday activities such as walking, running or playing sports. They had much lower physical fitness and health scores compared to peers who had not been bullied.  

Problems seemed to be compounded over time. Therefore the key message for Savvy Aunties and parents alike is that it is important to catch any bullying early. Signs can range from subtle such as becoming withdrawn or not wanting to go to school anymore to obvious physical signs of cuts, scrapes and bruises. Talk with your nieces and nephews directly about bullying.  If you suspect it or they confide in you talk with their parents, who can go to school authorities. Most states now require schools to have anti-bullying policies.

It is also important teach your nieces and nephews not to be silent bystanders if they see a classmate getting picked on. They need to speak up. Websites such as Stopbullying.gov have great tips and strategies on how to start the conversation, identify the problem and cope with bullying as well as help kids learn how to stop bullying!

Photo: Ambro
Published: February 26, 2014