Our Stories...Talking About A Problem Is The First Step To Resolving The Problem.

I was a victim of bullying from the age of 7 to 16. I thought the school was great and liked my work I just wished some of the pupils would go away and my life would be made so much easier. There are many forms of bullying, I was abused verbally, emotionally, psychologically and some physical bullying. I lived a life in paradox, I was a social outcast in school hating every moment and very socially active in my home life in the evening (most probably because I lived quite far away from my school).

Whilst I never did show any emotion to those that bullied me I was breaking apart inside with every bullying action, only to go home and cry my heart out. Thankfully my Mother was my rock and my saviour and used to pick up the pieces and glue me back together on a regular basis. Unfortunately I could never talk to my Father about it even though he must have known.

I tried telling the teachers but at that time their was no real comprehension of what to do and how to tackle such a situation, I gave up telling the teachers and vowed to battle through and do well in my studies and escape them all. I used to think it was me, there was something wrong with me or they way I did things but then I realised it was their problem not mine. At the time I never knew why they bullied me but now I know that some of them were probably bullied themselves either in school or the home environment.

The most unfair part was the secondary abuse from those under peer pressure from the bullies. Peer pressure is such a powerful driving force in any situation, it is difficult for people to stand up and be counted for fear of being bullied themselves. It was such a breath of fresh air when I eventually left school and went to college and subsequently University, I put the past behind me and became extroverted and very socially active. (That transition was very difficult to accomplish).

The memories of being a victim of bullying will stay with me to the grave. I am approaching 30 now and whilst I have overcome the mental anguish of my school years it stays with me even though I forgave my bullies a long time ago. The key thing is not to let it weigh you down. Do not become embittered or resentful of those around you. Seek help, guidance and advice from a trusted party and last but not least communication.

Simply talking about a problem is the first step to resolving the problem.

by IC