Standing Up to Bullying

A visual guide to safe and effective responses when bullying happens

Anger ManagementInfographicFree ResourceLast reviewed April 2026

Standing Up to Bullying

A visual guide to safe and effective responses when bullying happens

Standing Up to Bullying

A visual guide to safe and effective responses when bullying happens

Bullying can feel overwhelming, but there are proven strategies that help you stay safe and protect your well-being. Research shows that young people who use a combination of assertive communication, social support, and emotional regulation cope more effectively with bullying. The steps below give you a clear plan to follow.

Stay Calm

Take a slow, deep breath before reacting. Bullies often want to see you get upset. Staying calm keeps you in control and shows that their words do not define you.

Use Confident Body Language

Stand tall with your shoulders back. Make brief eye contact and speak in a steady voice. Even if you feel nervous inside, confident body language signals that you are not an easy target.

Walk Away When Safe

You do not owe a bully a response. Whenever it is safe to do so, calmly walk away. Removing yourself from the situation takes away the audience the bully is looking for.

Use an Assertive Response

If walking away is not possible, respond with a brief, firm statement such as 'Stop. That is not okay.' Avoid insults or threats, which tend to escalate the situation.

Tell a Trusted Adult

Reporting is not the same as tattling. Adults can intervene in ways that keep everyone safer. Talk to a parent, teacher, counselor, or coach. If the first adult does not help, tell another one.

Lean on Your Support Network

Spend time with friends and family who make you feel valued. Social connection protects your self-esteem and reduces the emotional impact of bullying. You are not alone.

Remember: being bullied is never your fault.

You deserve to feel safe at school, online, and everywhere else.