First, all types of kids and teens are bullied. Bullying even affects those that are smart, funny, popular, and seem to have everything going for them. If you are being bullied, it doesn't mean you are less of a person, so don't let a bully make you feel that you are different in a bad way. You deserve respect, and nobody has the right to treat you badly.

It's sad to hear that you're being bullied by other people that you once hung out with and trusted. We know how hurtful that can feel. What are they doing to bully you? If they are verbally bullying you, you don't have to listen to it. Simply walk away. If you are in a situation that you can't walk away from such as during a class at school, ask the teacher if you can move seats, or tell the teacher what's going on and ask what they can do to help. If you are being bullied via texting or internet sites such as facebook or myspace, you can restrict certain people from getting on your profiles, and you can restrict certain incoming phone numbers on your cell phone. If they do find a way to send you a message, simply ignore it. The more you fight back, the more fuel you're adding to the fire. The bottom line is...........ignore what they are saying or doing.

It may sound crazy, but have you tried to ask your ex-friends to meet you at a neutral place such as a coffee shop to talk about what's going on? If you tell them honestly how much they are hurting you, they may be less likely to do what they are doing. It never hurts to try. If they don't listen or stop at least you know you've tried reasoning with them.

Talk to trusted adults around you about what you're going through. This could be a parent, aunt, uncle, or even school counselor. You don't have to go through this alone!!

Boys Town National Hotline
1-800-448-3000