HHS HealthBeat (June 14, 2012)

Bullying, depression, and suicide

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Nicholas Garlow with HHS HealthBeat.

Kids who bully, and kids who get bullied, often have characteristics in common. They may internalize their problems, have low self-esteem, aggression, and don’t get along with their peers. These kids are more likely to be anxious, depressed, and have thoughts of suicide.  

James Wright is a Public Health Advisor with the Suicide Prevention Branch at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

If you think someone is in emotional crisis or even in danger of taking their own life:

“Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 1-800-273-TALK. This number is active 24/7. It’s supported by SAMHSA, and is a network of community centers nationwide.” (11 seconds)

You can learn how to take action against bullying and prevent it from happening at stopbullying.gov.

Learn more at healthfinder.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Nicholas Garlow.

Last revised: June 14, 2012