October is National Bullying Prevention Month
Every Child. Every School.
Safe to Learn
Bullying affects mental health and is closely associated with suicide. CDC
Between 20% - 56% of youth are involved in bullying annually APA
31% reported being bullied 3 - 10 days & 18.5% report more than 10 days in a school year. NCES
39.7% of high schoolers reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness and 20.4% seriously considered suicide CDC
Suicide is the second leading cause of death in 10 - 19 year-olds CDC
Antibullying laws reduce bullying victimization, depression and suicide ideation. JPAM
This October, help us bring attention to need for documented and consistent bullying prevention polices and procedures in all K-12 schools. Effective bullying prevention requires more than a disciplinary code. It requires established procedures that guide students' developmental understanding of bullying behavior, its measurable harm to academic achievement and mental health, and the community’s shared responsibility for a school climate of dignity and belonging.
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Charlie’s Law & Anti-Bullying
Show You Care — Go Blue This October
A small sign of support can remind someone experiencing bullying that people see them, care about them, and are willing to stand beside them.
Tie a Blue Ribbon to Your Mailbox
A simple, visible way to show your household stands against bullying and supports young people who need it.
Install a Blue Lightbulb at Your Door
Join neighbors across the country lighting the way for awareness during October.
A Message From Charlie
“When you are bullied, it's easy to think there is something wrong with you, but anyone can be bullied. The new kid, the kid trying something new, or just the kid targeted today.”
— Charlie
What Is Bullying?
Bullying is more than a disagreement or one bad interaction. It is aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived imbalance of power and happens repeatedly, or has the potential to happen repeatedly.
Verbal Bullying
Name-calling, threats, hurtful teasing, insults, or comments meant to embarrass someone.
Social Bullying
Leaving someone out or ostracizing them on purpose, spreading rumors, embarrassing someone, or damaging friendships.
Cyberbullying
Bullying through texts, social media, online messages, games, or other digital spaces.
Physical Bullying
Hitting, pushing, kicking, damaging someone’s belongings, or other unwanted physical actions.
Bullying: Quick Facts
Bullying can affect everyone involved, including those who are bullied, those who bully others, and people who witness it.
1 in 5
About 1 in 5 high school students reported being bullied on school property in the past year.
More Than 1 in 6
More than 1 in 6 high school students reported being bullied electronically through things like texting and social media.
The Effects Can Be Serious
Bullying can contribute to physical injury, emotional and social distress, problems with sleep, lower academic achievement, and other serious effects.
Preventing bullying takes all of us. Young people, parents, educators, and other caring adults can help create safer communities by recognizing bullying, supporting those affected, and speaking up when it happens.
Understanding Bullying in Different Forms
Bullying can take different forms and is not always easy to recognize. These videos show how harmful behavior can be disguised as humor or happen through social media.
Selling Your Soul for a Follow
It’s Just a Joke
Know the Signs
Signs Someone May Be Experiencing Bullying
Suddenly avoiding school or social situations
Losing friends or withdrawing from others
Unexplained injuries or damaged belongings
Changes in eating or sleeping
Falling grades or losing interest in school
Seeming more anxious, upset, or less confident
Pay Attention When Something Changes
Not every person who is being bullied will show obvious signs. If someone starts acting differently, seems uncomfortable, or pulls away from things they normally enjoy, it may be worth checking in.
Sometimes simply asking, “Are you okay?” can open the door to a conversation.
When Someone Is Being Bullied
Knowing what to say or do can make a real difference. The goal is to help the person feel heard, supported, and safe.
Listen
Let them explain what happened without interrupting, blaming, or judging them.
Show You Care
Take what they are saying seriously and remind them that they deserve to feel safe and respected.
Get Support
A parent, teacher, counselor, coach, administrator, or another trusted adult can help figure out what to do next.
What Not to Say
Avoid saying, “Just ignore it,” or telling someone to fight back.
Try saying, “I’m glad you told me. Let’s figure out what would help.”
Ask What They Need
Instead of immediately taking over, ask what would help them feel safer or more comfortable.
How to Start the Conversation
Sometimes the hardest part is knowing what to say. A simple, caring conversation can help someone feel comfortable enough to open up.
Talking to Your Child
“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. Is something going on?”
“How are things going with your friends at school?”
“Have you ever seen someone being bullied at school or online?”
“If something was happening, you could always talk to me about it.”
Talking to a Friend or Peer
“Hey, I’ve noticed something seems off. Are you okay?”
“You don’t have to tell me anything you don’t want to, but I’m here.”
“Do you want me to help you talk to someone?”
“What would make you feel safer right now?”
You do not need to have the perfect words. Listening and showing that you care is a good place to start.
Resources for Educators
Teachers, counselors, coaches, and school staff can play an important role in recognizing bullying, supporting students, and creating safer environments.
Bullying Prevention Resources
Find information, strategies, and guidance for preventing and responding to bullying in schools.
Educator Training
Additional training can help educators recognize bullying, respond appropriately, and support students who may be affected.
Help is Here
If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, you do not have to handle it alone. Support and resources are available.
Bullying Information & Support
Information for students, parents, educators, and communities about preventing and responding to bullying.
Additional Support Resources
Resources for bullying prevention, education, support, and getting help.
Maryland Students & Families
Safe Schools Maryland
An anonymous reporting system for school safety concerns in Maryland.
Bullying can end a life. Kindness can save one.
Bullying can end a life. Kindness can save one.