Another option is to ignore the presence of the bully. Whatever they are doing, don’t even look their way. By letting them know you can hear them but don’t care about what they are saying, they will think you are too strong for them to be mean to and leave you alone. [3] X Research source
There is also safety in numbers. Have a buddy system where you walk to and from unsupervised areas can help deter a bully from coming after you. [5] X Research source
Hold in your feelings. If the meanie sees you upset, they know they’ve gotten to you. By holding in your feelings, you’ll look tough and unbothered. The biggest thing a bully wants is a reaction from you, to let them know you are upset by them. Denying them this satisfaction will hopefully make them move on to easier targets. To try control your feelings, count backwards from 100 or recite the alphabet. By distracting your mind, you’ll be more able to control your feelings or tears. [7] X Research source Crying doesn’t mean you are a little kid. You are allowed to cry when sad and no adults will judge you for it. However, a mean person may view it as being an easy target for them to talk down to.
If you’re afraid to do this on your own, ask a buddy to stand with you. They don’t need to say anything, but can help give you courage to tell the bully to leave you around.
Alternatively, your response can communicate that what the bully said didn’t bother you. Say something like “so what?” or “who cares?” or “was that supposed to be funny?” Support your verbal comeback with body language. For example, you can roll your eyes or shrug. Once you respond to the bully, it’s best just to walk away.
You should always stand up for someone who is being bullied, no matter who it is. Even if you see someone who is mean to you get picked on, you should stand up for them. By being nice and respectful to everyone, people will be less likely to pick on you, and more likely to stand up for you if you are bullied.
Sometimes all the bully needs to get scared is to know an adult has been told. Even if the adult doesn’t talk to them, the bully may be scared out of talking to you again. [12] X Research source Explain yourself clearly. If you say you’re being “bugged” at school, the adult might not understand. Tell them plainly, “I am being bullied and need help. ”
If the first adult you talk to doesn’t help you, don’t stop there. Bullying is never okay and if you can’t get help, ask someone else. Keep on asking until you find someone. This is the case for whether someone is being mean to you, or you observe someone else being bullied. [14] X Research source
