The Growing Crisis of Bullying Among Children
In recent years, the issue of bullying has become a significant concern for children across Australia. With an increasing number of young people facing challenges at school and online, many are turning to helplines for support rather than their parents. This shift highlights a growing need for accessible resources and understanding from adults in the community.
Children aged 10 to 14 are particularly affected, with reports showing that a rising proportion of calls to Kids Helpline come from this age group. Some children younger than 10 have even expressed suicidal thoughts, underscoring the severity of the situation. Surveys indicate that around two-thirds of children do not share their struggles with their parents, choosing instead to reach out to a helpline for help.
Leo Hede, National Manager of Kids Helpline, explains that one of the main reasons children avoid talking to their parents is the fear of adding to their stress. “They don’t want to tell mum and dad because they’re already overwhelmed,” he says. “They see their parents managing a lot and might feel like they can’t add to that.”
This sense of responsibility often leads children to try to handle their problems on their own, which can be incredibly isolating. Hede notes that the themes discussed by younger children are similar to those raised by older children. “Bullying isn’t just name-calling—it’s exclusion, threats, and feeling unsafe at school and online,” he says. “Many kids feel isolated and anxious, and what they want most is to feel seen, supported, and safe.”
When children call helplines, they often express feelings of sadness, isolation, or fear. Phone operators listen and work to address these emotions before moving into action. “Sometimes they may not start by talking about bullying,” Hede explains. “It might be about feeling upset or disconnected from friends. As we explore what’s going on, we may identify bullying as a key factor.”
Hede emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for children. He encourages parents to be aware of the emotions and behaviors they model around their children. “Kids are sponges for everything adults do around them,” he says. “We have to be very aware of our own actions, especially regarding the language we use about others or our reactions to things.”
Creating a Safe Space for Conversation
Kim Harper, manager of Parentline, highlights the importance of listening rather than rushing to fix problems. “Parents tend to go straight into ‘fix it’ mode, but what we want is for them to listen,” she says. “We want to help them be a safe, stable, and secure presence in their child’s life.”
Harper explains that when children open up, parents should manage their own emotional reactions. “The emotional reaction parents have is understandable, but it can prevent kids from talking to them,” she adds. “It’s important to slow down and let the child feel heard and supported.”
Taking a step back may be challenging, especially when parental instincts urge immediate action. However, by listening, parents can empower their children. “It’s up to the kids when they pull the parents off the bench,” Harper says. “They may need help right away, or they may just want to talk through some options without immediate intervention.”
Resources for Support
If you or someone you know needs assistance, there are several organizations available to provide support. In Australia, Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) offer 24/7 access to trained counsellors. For those impacted by suicide loss, StandBy (1300 727 247) provides free support services.
Creating a safe space for children to express their feelings is crucial in addressing the challenges they face. By fostering open communication and understanding, parents and caregivers can play a vital role in supporting the well-being of young people.