HealthInfo Canterbury
Bullying is repeated behaviour that is intended to harm someone. Bullying can also be a misuse of power, such as in a personal or professional relationship.
Bullying is serious. It can happen anywhere and be done by anyone, and it doesn't just happen to young people.
Different types of bullying include:
If you, or someone you know is being bullied, it's important to tell an adult you trust and ask for help. If you don't want to or feel you have no one to talk to, you could try one of the phone helplines below.
If you are a bully, be aware that this behaviour not only has long-term negative effects on people you're bullying but also on yourself. Take time to have a think about what you are doing and why. If you can’t control your bullying you may need some help to change your behaviour.
The links below have information to help young people who are being bullied, and to help those who have been accused of bullying to change.
0800 What's Up? is free counselling helpline and webchat service for children and teenagers.
Freephone 0800‑942‑8787. Monday to Friday, 12 noon to 11 pm. Weekends 3 pm to 11 pm.
You may prefer to chat online. Monday to Friday, 1 pm to 10 pm. Weekends 3 pm to 10 pm.
You can also read about different kinds of bullying, why people get bullied, and how to deal with it.
Any young person in New Zealand, or anyone supporting a young person, can call Youthline for help.
Freephone 0800‑376-633 (any time) or free txt 234 to speak to a counsellor.
You can also chat online using the webchat between 10 am and 10 pm, 7 days a week.
Email any time. Counsellors aim to respond to emails within 24 hours.
You can also read about bullying, and how to get help for yourself or a friend.
HealthInfo recommends the following videos
Sticks 'n Stones is a teenage led programme based in Central Otago committed to taking positive action online.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
Aunty Dee can help you solve problems with issues like bullying, depression, drinking, grief and sex. The website is designed for young Pasifika people, but it can help all rangatahi.
Information about bullying and how to deal with it. Includes videos about bullying.
Information and help with cyberbullying.
How to deal with bullying and what to do about bullying at school.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed January 2021. Last updated September 2021.
Review key: HIBUL-50759