How to Empower Teens Who Are Being Bullied
Today’s youth have it rough! Too many succumb to the pressures of fitting in with established social mores that have been set as the “standard way of life.” Most adjust and “make the best of it”, while others act out, completely shut down, or otherwise cave-in and fall prey as they feel they can’t and don’t live up to the standards of “the system”.
Almost every child has experienced teasing and bullying once or twice in their life; some more than others. Since I could remember, it has been a part of growing up. Between 40 and 80 percent of teenagers admit that they bully. And with the advent of social media and advanced technology, bullying has never been easier. Bullies are usually very aware of their intent to hurt someone. From verbal and psychological abuse such as name calling, making threats, and spreading rumors; to physical abuse like hitting or pushing and stealing their victims property– they go through drastic measures just to frighten them. As a result, young people resort to anorexia, bulimia, drugs and alcohol, depression, or even far worse – suicide. This is an unfortunate yet real situation that is making an indelibly negative impact on many communities nationwide and the world at large in record numbers that are alarming to say the least.
Launched in September 2013, #BeYou is an answer to many serious public mental health issues. It is the cheerleader and the support system for youth stricken with grief, hopelessness, and despair. It is the voice that individuals need for encouragement, and the outlet that teens cry out for when they want to speak about their struggles and put life’s dilemmas into perspective. Essentially, #BeYou is about embracing yourself, honing your skills, and living out your true purpose in life. It’s about self-expression, freedom of speech, and liberation. With focus on a positive outlook on life, the movement aims to inspire those that have doubt, insecurities, and extreme disbelief in themselves. #BeYou desires to motivate the masses to take action, think outside the box, and connect with their inner self, and encourages everyone to teach for the stars, and positively stimulate those around you, to do the same.
Here are five ways to encourage teens to empower and strengthen themselves:
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START WITH YOU
Develop a strong self-love by telling yourself positive affirmations. Write yourself a love letter explaining the amount of respect and love you have for yourself.
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BUILD CONFIDENCE
Don’t compare yourself with anyone. Be optimistic about life.
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WORK ON THINGS THAT YOU LOVE
Write down all of your talents and start on your journey to discovering your gifts and passions.
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DEVELOP A COMPASSIONATE MINDSET
Practice compassion, love and understanding throughout your everyday. After a while it will become a habit.
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HANG OUT WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Build your social skills. Introduce yourself to new people. Smile, laugh, and live your life purposefully.
Once you can develop a strong sense of self, you will be more optimistic about life, and be able to live a purpose filled life…#BeYou!
LEARN. CONNECT. ACT
Learn more about the Be You Campaign
Connect via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
FROM THE EDITOR
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