Children who are victims of bullying also tend to have lower academic achievements and are at a higher risk for dropping out of school. As reported by the Center for disease control, children who are bullied have a higher risk for suicide-related behaviors, substance use, and other behavioral issues.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most research-based and widely used therapy methods for treating anxiety, depression, self-image, substance abuse, and suicide – all issues related to bullying. In therapy, the bullied child, learns to identify negative feelings (anger, sadness), self-defeating thoughts (“I’m worthless”), and maladaptive coping behaviors (social isolation). CBT teaches the individual how to dismantle unproductive thoughts about the self, and replace them with more positive ones. The purpose of CBT is to allow the individual to regain their self-confidence reclaim control over their lives.