Words are a powerful weapon. Everyone knows this, but do people truly understand this? This current generation knows that words can be scary, and yet we do nothing to change it. Are we too careless to even start thinking about what we might be saying?

There have been studies that show that teens who are or have been cyberbullied are 2.3 times more at risk of self-harm or suicidal behavior (telegraph.co.uk). Due to the world revolving around social media, studies also show that suicide among teens have doubled, making it the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34 (meganmeierfoundation). These numbers should mean something to people, however even with such a huge increase in suicide, people are still doing nothing to truly change it.

Our insensitivity is a huge problem when it comes to social media. Yes, we do have freedom of speech, but we should not abuse that. There is a difference between constructive criticism and harassment. Since we are protected behind a screen, we usually do not think twice before pressing the send or post button. It is simply easier to say what we want on social media than to say it in front of someone’s face. Sometimes we can take that a step forward by going anonymous, which is allowed in some social media apps. Everyone has a “filter” and knows what is right and what is wrong, but we choose to ignore our conscience and not filter out anything.

Bullying is not the only problem; being a bystander is an issue as well. It makes a huge difference when we stand up for someone. We live in a society where people are too scared to stand up for someone, or we just do not want to get involved because we are either too lazy or we just do not care. That is why some people find it hopeless to look for help. They feel like no one will help them or even care for them. With this, people should not take other people’s feelings lightly. If someone is being cyberbullied and being hurt by words, we should not think that they are overreacting or they are just being too sensitive. People tend to only remember the insults more than the compliments because the insults dig deeper and carve a scar on their hearts. 

Before sending a text or posting a comment about something, think about whether or not it is actually a good thing to say. There is nothing cool about being a bad person on the inside. Mrs. Heim (Staff) said, “This generation is just so hooked up with their phones and the internet, and even I struggle with it too. But nothing will happen if you distance yourself from social media. It will not even hurt to think about whether or not it is a good idea to post or send something that can be hurtful to someone.” 

There is help available: visit the YLHS website, go to counseling and click on wellness to contact Mrs. Heim. There are also other staff members that are willing to help. Don’t feel down about what people say, and don’t be the bully!

For help, copy link: https://www.ylhs.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1510382&type=d&pREC_ID=1650488