HHS HealthBeat (February 12, 2013)

The bullying environment

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

Bullying can happen anywhere. It can happen in person, online, or behind your back. But there are some groups that are at higher risk.

Erin Reiney is a public health specialist at HHS’ Health Resources and Services Administration.

“Depending on the environment, some groups such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered youth, youth with disabilities, and socially isolated youth may be at increased risk of being bullied.”

Children can also be at increased risk if they are depressed or anxious, have low self esteem, or don’t get along well with others.

Kids can help prevent bullying by talking about it with their parents and by being more than a bystander.

Parents can support kids by setting a good example and helping kids understand bullying and how to identify it.

Learn more at stopbullying.gov.

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

Last revised: February 12, 2013