Understanding the mental health effects of bullying is essential because bullying has affected children and teens for generations, yet only recently have we recognized how deeply it harms not only victims but also bystanders and the bullies themselves.

What Is Bullying?

The Centers for Disease Control defines bullying as a form of youth violence involving unwanted aggressive behavior and a real or perceived power imbalance. That imbalance may come from social status, physical strength, wealth or size. Bullying often occurs repeatedly over time and can cause physical, psychological, social or educational harm.

Because bullying is prolonged, it differs from isolated conflicts such as arguments or one-time fights. Bullying behaviors include:

• Physical intimidation or harm—tripping, pushing, hitting or spitting
• Social exclusion, teasing, name calling or insults
• Threats, property destruction or coercion
• Spreading rumors or lies

Cyberbullying takes bullying into digital spaces. It can occur publicly, privately or anonymously on social media, apps, messaging platforms or games. Cyberbullies spread rumors, use threats, share explicit images or send intrusive messages. Because online content can be permanent unless removed, cyberbullying creates lasting harm and often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe.

Prevalence of Bullying

One in five students ages 12–18 reports being bullied. These incidents occur at least weekly in 14% of public schools, with the highest rates in middle schools.

Online, the numbers are even higher. Nearly two-thirds of U.S. teens have experienced cyberbullying. Because digital harassment can occur 24/7, victims often feel they cannot escape.

Students at greater risk include those seen as “different” in appearance, identity, orientation or ability. New students and those with fewer friends may also be targeted. Bullies themselves may be popular—or socially isolated—and may have a history of being bullied. Many struggle with rule-following, limited parental involvement or beliefs that support violence.

Mental Health Effects of Bullying

Bullying affects physical, emotional and mental health during childhood and into adulthood. It can lead to injury, social withdrawal and intense psychological distress.

Victims face increased risk for:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Low self-esteem
• Loneliness
• Sudden, extreme violence in rare cases

For example, stopbullying.gov notes that in 12 of 15 school shootings, the shooters had previously been bullied.

Bullies also experience long-term effects. They have higher rates of antisocial behavior, substance misuse and academic problems, and they are more likely to drop out. In adulthood they may continue abusive behaviors or become involved in criminal activity.

Bully-victims—those who both bully and are bullied—have the most severe outcomes. They experience the highest rates of depression, anxiety and suicidal thinking.

Bystanders also experience the mental health effects of bullying. Those who do not intervene may feel guilt, fear of retaliation or distress, which can lead to increased anxiety, depression, lower academic performance and substance use. Conversely, bystanders who act often show improved self-esteem.

Although bullying alone does not directly cause suicide, it contributes to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness that influence suicidal behavior. Risk is greatest for bully-victims and those who experience sustained harassment.

The Importance of Addressing Bullying

Bullying creates toxic stress, especially when it accumulates year after year. It is crucial to recognize early signs and intervene.

Victims may:

• Have unexplained injuries
• Lose books or personal items
• Avoid school or certain areas
• Experience sleep problems
• Show declining grades
• Lose interest in activities
• Withdraw socially
• Harm themselves or run away

Bullies may:

• Become more aggressive
• Associate with other bullies
• Resist taking responsibility
• Display unexplained money or possessions

Bullying harms everyone involved. Because of these mental health effects, addressing it early is essential. Parents and teachers can work together to ensure safety, build coping skills and promote supportive environments.

Best Day’s counselors can help children and families cope with trauma related to bullying. Reaching out is the first step toward restoring emotional well-being and preventing long-term harm.