October is National Bullying Prevention Month and it’s time that we put an end to this dangerous practice. While the internet is filled with amazing people and heartwarming stories there are always trolls lurking about. This month, take active steps to protect your mental wellbeing from cyber bullies.

FOUR REASONS WHY PEOPLE BECOME CYBER BULLIES

1. Revenge. These people are attempting to get back at someone who they feel has wronged them.
2. Power. These people want to have power over another person. As these bullies feel control over another person they are bullying, their next goal is to make the person fearful.
3. Entertainment. Many bullies find embarrassing others and hurting another person is entertaining.
4. Stupidity. These bullies are unaware that they are hurting others with their postings. They post without thinking or what they are really saying and the consequences.

CYBER ETIQUETTE

The core of cyber-etiquette is to remember, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Manners applied to the Internet and the use of technology in everyday situations.

Two examples of breaches of technology etiquette:

1. Checking email messages and texting in meetings.
2. Taking smartphone calls or texting during business lunches.

TIPS TO STOP CYBER-BULLYING

1. Don’t respond or retaliate. Try to become unattached to the negative words of the bully. It is normal to want to retaliate against the bully. This just creates a chain of events that could cause more problems.
2. Save the evidence. All of the evidence is easy to save with our current technology. Make sure you save everything because you never know when or why you may need this information.
3. Get help. If the bullying has affected you emotionally please get help. There are many people that can support you. Go to a teacher, counselor, minister or a family member. These people can support and guide you through this difficult time.