Bullying is the use of force, coercion, hurtful teasing or threat, to abuse, dominate or intimidate others. It can be a pattern of behavior in which one person or group repeatedly targets and intentionally harms another person or group physically, mentally or emotionally. This can occur in person either; physically or verbally as well as through social media.
Signs of Bullying in Teens:
- Physical signs of injury or unexplained bruises.
- Changes in mood or behavior, such as increased anxiety or depression, withdrawal, irritability, crying or aggression.
- Loss of friends or avoidance of social situations.
- Changes in academic performance, such as decreased grades or attendance or asking to be picked up early from school.
- Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy.
- Changes in sleep or eating habits.
How ROWI can help:
- Individual therapy sessions with licensed therapists trained in evidence-based treatments for trauma and anxiety related to bullying, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Distress Tolerance Skills.
- Group therapy sessions, including PEERS groups, to provide support and teach coping skills to manage the effects of bullying.
- Family therapy sessions help parents best learn how to understand and support their child who is experiencing bullying. This can include parents implementing more effective and empathic listening as well as assisting their child with the practice of coping skills to manage difficult feelings. Parents and children can learn how to effectively communicate thoughts, feelings, and concerns with one another in order for the child to best get their needs met.
- Referral to medical providers for medication management, if necessary.
- Educational resources for parents and teens to learn more about bullying; notice signs and symptoms and how to manage the effects.
Each ROWI client receives a treatment plan that will support them in meeting their goals. Programs are individualized in order to meet each client and family where they are at in the process. Contact us to learn more and to get support for your teen struggling with bullying.