HealthInfo Canterbury
Bullying
Bullying is serious. It can happen anywhere, it can be done by anyone – and it doesn't just happen to young people.
If you, or someone you know is being bullied, it's important to tell someone you trust and ask for help.
And if you have been told you are a bully, maybe it's time to have a think about what's going on and see if you need some extra help.
The links below have information to help young people who are being bullied, and also to help those who have been accused of bullying to change their behaviour.
Phone helplines
0800 What's Up
Freephone: 0800‑942‑8787
Monday to Friday, 12 noon to 11 pm
Weekends 3 pm to 11 pm
You can also read about different kinds of bullying, why people get bullied, and how to deal with it. Plus you can chat to a counsellor online.
Youthline
Freephone 0800‑376-633 (any time) or free txt 234 to speak to a counsellor.
Email talk@youthline.co.nz any time. Counsellors aim to respond to emails within 24 hours, so if you need help immediately it's better to phone, txt, or use the online chat.
You can also read about bullying, and how to get help for yourself or a friend. Plus you can chat to a counsellor online.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Youth Beyondblue – Bullying and cyberbullying
You'll find information about bullying, and also read Todd Nester's story about being bullied because he was overweight. This is an Australian site, so the phone numbers don't work in New Zealand.
- Reachout.com – Bullying
Here you'll find answers to questions like: What is bullying? How can bullying affect you and others? What can you do to stop bullies?
- Ask Aunty Dee
Aunty Dee can help you solve problems with issues like bullying, depression, drinking, grief and sex. The website is designed for young Pacific people, but it can help all young people.
Cyberbullying
- Netsafe – Help with bullying & abuse
Information and help with cyberbullying.
Your legal rights and what you can do
- YouthLaw – Bullying
How to deal with bullying and what to do about bullying at school.
On the next page: How to help if your teen is being bullied.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed February 2017. Last updated August 2018.
Review key: HIBUL-50759
