Author: Aïcha Bakayoko
Date of Publication: 07/06/2023
Living in a world of high technological improvements has both advantages and disadvantages. Unfortunately, since the emergence of the internet and social media, cyberbullying has become more prevalent. In particular, cyberbullying involves hurting, frightening and oppressing another person on the Internet. For example, messages on social media or phone numbers are the most common form of cyberbullying. In fact, some people are still not sufficiently aware of the negative impact this can have on a person's life and well-being. That's why we'll look at some of the consequences of such an act.
The consequences of cyberbullying :
Depression and anxiety
Depression, anxiety and other forms of stress are one of the effects of online harassment. Research consistently shows that cyberbullying leads to higher levels of depression, anxiety, helplessness, sadness...
Anger
An increase in anger and hatred can occur when you are the victim of cyberbullying. At some point, some people get so angry at what's happening to them that they consider taking revenge. It's a vicious circle.
Isolation
Being bullied on social media and the internet affects your social interactions. You feel excluded from others, alone and isolated. Sometimes, people may also isolate themselves in reality by fear of being bullied again
Low self-esteem
When we're young, we really need to feel socially accepted and part of a group. Since this isn't the case for victims of bullying, they feel bad about who they are. As a result, victims begin to see themselves as less valuable and worthy, leading to low self-esteem.
Academic issues
It also affects your academic life especially if those who bully you and you are in the same school. Victims tend to skip classes, struggle to get good grades and sometimes even drop out of school.
Use of drugs and weapons
In order to escape from that situation, some will use drugs. Others will use weapons to defend themselves in case someone tries to physically harm them or continues to harass them.
Suicidal thoughts
Self-harm, suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts are very common among victims of cyberbullying and bullying in general. As their situation doesn't improve, their mental health is really affected. Therefore, at some point, they just want to stop living or hurt themselves.
Sleeping disorders
Cyberbullying can increase disorders like sleeping disorders. Indeed, they may suffer from insomnia, nightmares or sleeping more than usual.
Eating disorders
Eating disorders are also a consequence of cyberbullying. The victims may experience changes in their eating habits: skipping meals, binge eating or even stopping to eat. In particular, itt happens when one is bullied for their physical appearance.
As you can see, cyberbullying is a real matter that needs to be tackled by all means. Therefore, citizens, but also governments, should do more to protect victims of cyberbullying. This way, they will help them overcome this situation. In a world where there's a lot going on, we should at least show respect and solidarity towards each other!
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