The lasting negative impact of bullying

By R. Ryan S Patel DO, FAPA, OSU-CCS Psychiatrist
Many students might be aware of emotional harm that can occur as a result of bullying. People may not know that being bullied as a child or a young person might lead to emotional problems that occur when you are an adult.
This was highlighted in a recent study.

What was studied?

Exposure to bullying and childhood maltreatment was assessed among 5466 children aged 8 to 16 years old.
Then, at 18 years of age, symptoms of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidality were measured.
What did the study show?

This studied showed that adults who were bullied during childhood had an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and self-reported harm in the past year compared to the other groups.
What do the results mean?

While we know from studies that people who are victims of maltreatment during childhood are at an increased risk of various mental health problems during adulthood, this study suggests that people who are victims of bullying during childhood also has serious mental health consequences as the victims become adults.
It is hoped that future research will shed further light on this topic.

Have you experienced bullying in the past? Are you experiencing emotional problems now? Have you considered professional help?
Helpful resources
Counseling and medications can be helpful for a variety of mental health concerns.
ccs.osu.edu (counseling on campus)

stopbullying.gov

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 to speak to trained counselor.
Disclaimer: This article is intended to be informative only. It is advised that you check with your own physician/mental health provider before implementing any changes. With this article, the author is not rendering medical advice, nor diagnosing, prescribing, or treating any condition, or injury; and therefore claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or injury caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the material presented.

References
Adult mental health consequences of peer bullying and maltreatment in childhood: two cohorts in two countries. Suzet Tanya Lereya, William E Copeland, E Jane Costello, Dieter Wolke. www.thelancet.com/psychiatry Published online April 28, 2015 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(15)00165-0