Standing Together Against Bullying: Let’s Make Kindness Louder
Anti-Bullying Week: Why It Matters
Every November, people across the UK come together for Anti-Bullying Week — a time to shine a light on something that affects so many, yet is too often hidden behind silence or shame.
This year’s theme, “Standing Together,” reminds us that even small acts of kindness can have a powerful ripple effect. Whether in a school, a workplace, or online, every one of us has the ability to make someone feel seen, safe, and supported.
Because bullying isn’t “just part of growing up” or “something you have to toughen up through.” It’s something that can leave deep emotional scars — but it’s also something we can all help to stop.
Bullying Can Happen Anywhere
When we think of bullying, we often picture playground taunts or schoolyard cliques. But the truth is, bullying doesn’t always end when we leave school. It can appear in many forms, in many places:
At school or college:
From name-calling to exclusion, bullying at school can make every day feel overwhelming. For children and teens, this can chip away at confidence and make them question their worth.
In the workplace:
Adults can experience bullying too — from subtle put-downs in meetings to being isolated or unfairly criticised. It can lead to anxiety, burnout, and a deep sense of helplessness.
Online (cyberbullying):
The internet never sleeps, and for those being targeted online, there’s often no “off switch.” Hurtful comments or messages can feel inescapable — especially for young people growing up in a digital world.
At home or in relationships:
Sometimes, bullying hides behind closed doors. Emotional manipulation, control, or constant criticism within families or relationships can be just as painful — and just as damaging.
The Hidden Impact: Mental Health and Bullying
Bullying doesn’t just hurt in the moment — it leaves echoes that can last for years. Many people who experience bullying struggle with:
Persistent anxiety or depression
Low self-esteem and self-doubt
Social withdrawal and fear of judgment
Sleep issues or physical symptoms like headaches and fatigue
In some cases, thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness
When someone is bullied, it can change the way they see themselves — and the world around them. That’s why early support and understanding are so crucial.
How Counselling Can Help You Heal
At Michelle’s Counselling and Training, we understand how heavy bullying can feel — whether it happened recently or many years ago. Counselling provides confidential and private space to untangle the emotions that come with those experiences and begin to rebuild your sense of self.
Together, we can:
Explore how bullying has affected your confidence and wellbeing
Find your voice again and learn ways to set healthy boundaries
Build resilience and self-worth, step by step
Recover at your own pace, in a space where you’re truly heard and valued
Recovering from bullying isn’t about “moving on” — it’s about rediscovering who you are beneath the hurt.
Standing Together, Starting Today
Anti-Bullying Week reminds us that change starts with compassion. Whether you’re the person being bullied, a bystander who wants to help, or someone still recovering from the past — your voice matters.
Let’s make kindness louder.
Let’s stand together, not apart.
Let’s remind each other that no one deserves to feel small.
If you’re struggling, please reach out — support is here for you.
Visit www.michellescounsellingandtraining.co.uk to learn more or get in touch today.
Because no one should face bullying alone. Ever.
