Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week May 7-13 2024: Addressing Bullying in Schools 

Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week is observed from May 7 to May 13, focusing on the mental well-being of children and adolescents. As a psychologist, I have received numerous distressing cases at my counseling centre this year, particularly regarding students who are experiencing bullying from both teachers and classmates. The impact of such experiences on the mental health of these students cannot be overstated. It is important to address these cases promptly and effectively to support the psychological well-being of these young individuals.

Understanding the Issue: Many students are subjected to bullying by both their peers and teachers. Teachers may unknowingly contribute to this behaviour by labeling students with derogatory names such as “Foolish,” “Pagal” (crazy), “Gorilla,” “Kangaroo,” or “Elephant.” Students are targeted due to their appearance, academic performances, and poor background favouring only the students from rich backgrounds. Despite the ban on corporal punishment in India, some teachers still continue to use physical violence against students. This creates an environment where bullying is normalised, leading other classmates to mimic this behaviour. As a result, Many students are reluctant to attend school due to continuous physical and verbal abuse and victims of bullying experience significant psychological distress and interpersonal difficulties within the school environment.

Impact of Bullying on Mental Health: Victims of bullying, whether by teachers or classmates, often experience various mental health issues, Bullying, whether perpetrated by peers or authority figures, can lead to a range of psychological issues, including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, phobias, and psychosomatic symptoms. If left unaddressed, these issues can persist into adulthood, impacting the individual’s overall well-being.

Types of Bullying: Bullying can take various forms, including:

a. Physical bullying: This involves hitting, kicking, pushing, or other forms of physical aggression.

b. Verbal bullying: This includes teasing, name-calling, threats, and derogatory comments.

c. Social bullying: This involves spreading rumors, excluding someone from a group, or embarrassing them in public (including schools).

d. Cyberbullying: This occurs through digital devices and platforms, such as social media, text messages, or online forums.

Addressing the Problem: Schools and their Counselors should closely monitor the behaviour of all students, particularly those who are victims of bullying and those who engage in bullying behaviour. Counselling sessions should be provided to help modify and rectify problematic behaviours, and students should be made aware of the consequences of their actions.

Support for Students with Learning Disabilities (LD): Regular counselling sessions should be conducted for teachers to help them understand and empathise with the challenges faced by students with learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia. It is crucial for educators to understand that each child learns at a different pace. Teachers should adapt their teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities. Teachers should be encouraged not to stigmatise these students for their academic difficulties.

Intervention and Action: It is essential for the relevant authorities, including those appointed by the Government of Nagaland(GoN), like Child Helpline (1098) and Child Welfare Committee (CWC), to intervene in such matters and take stringent action against both teachers and students who engage in bullying behaviour. Schools should consider appointing dedicated Counsellors to address bullying and promote a positive and inclusive school environment.

Children’s mental health is a priority, and addressing bullying in schools is crucial for creating a safe and supportive learning environment. The appointed Counsellors must collaborate with educators, and authorities to ensure the well-being of all students. Counsellors must play a vital role in identifying and addressing issues related to bullying and mental health, thereby creating a safer and more supportive environment for everyone.

Niutoli Tuccu

Rehabilitation Psychologist RCI (A82517)

Proprietor NT_ Revivify Counseling Service

Dimapur, Nagaland