Signs of bullying aren’t always
easy to spot

Ask Dr. Tim

Q. My daughter has been complaining of stomachaches and headaches before school, but they usually go away later in the day. Should I be concerned? She seems to feel sick almost every day.

A. It is possible that your daughter’s complaints are a result of being bullied at school. My colleagues and I see similar symptoms in some of our patients that appear to be illness, but actually reflect a child’s reluctance to go to school.

Warning signs for bullying are not always easy to spot, which is why it’s important for parents and teachers to know what to look for, especially as the school year begins.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers the following signs to help determine whether your child may be a victim of bullying:

• Damaged or missing pieces of clothing or books
• Unexplained cuts, bruises or scratches
• Few friends
• Afraid of going to school, riding the bus or taking part in organized activities with peers, such as clubs
• Sudden change in academic performance
• Sad, moody or depressed after school
• Frequent complaints of headaches, stomachaches or other physical ailments
• Trouble sleeping or frequent bad dreams
• Loss of appetite
• Anxiety, low self-esteem

If you suspect your child is being bullied, please talk with your child, and his or her teacher. School officials can help shed light on social interactions at school and address a problem, if one exists.

More information on bullying

Visit www.StopBullyingNow.hrsa.gov for much more information on what to do if your child is being bullied or bullying others.