Bullying is not OK

Bullying, unfortunately, happens more often to deaf people, and deaf students are more at risk of being bullied than hearing people at school.

I have been called, named, and assumed many things when I was at school, whether that was ‘stupid’, ‘incompetent’ or ‘dumb’ and many more. People assumed that because I have a hearing loss that I wasn’t valued the same as others. People seemed to see me as an easy target to bully and pick on.

At first, I was too scared to stand up for myself, thinking that it would make situations worse. It took time for me to stand up for myself and make it known that it was not OK to call me these names.

There were many times after school where I would run to my sister crying or cry in my room by myself because I felt unworthy and alone. I thought that I deserved to be bullied and that it was OK, but it's never OK. When I turned to a trusted teacher and my sister, I learnt that I was not alone and that they were there to help me.

Bullying is not OK and is not acceptable. You must remember that you are worth more than what they're saying to you. Bullies want to feel better by bringing others down.

There is no reason and no excuse for them to be mean to you, and I strongly advise you to talk to someone you fully trust so they can help you.

My top tips for dealing with bullying:

• Speak to teacher, parent, friend or someone you trust if you’re being bullied.
• Keep a record so you can show someone how often this is happening.
• Try not to react. I know it's easier said than done, but when bullies are given a reaction, they are more likely to continue the act.
• Contact the National Deaf Children's Society if you're worried. They will be able to help guide you and give advice.

You are not alone. You are allowed to stand up for yourself as this is your life, and you deserve all the happiness in the world.

Here is a lovely quote I found for you: "If I were a flower… I would be a sunflower. To always follow the sun, turn my back to darkness, stand proud, tall and straight even with my head full of seeds." (Pam Stewart)

Stay kind,

Skye x