Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Take a Stand Against Bullying

Today is the last Wednesday of February, which means it's Anti-Bullying Day in Canada. The day, also known as pink shirt day, asks participants and supporters to wear pink shirts to support anti-bullying efforts.

The movement has gained traction in the last few years due to the increased attention surrounding bullying in school and cyber-bullying. Besides wearing pink shirts, anti-bullying day can consist of a number of activities in school or the workplace to draw attention to the importance of helping reduce bullying, and not being a silent observer.

Besides making schools and communities a safe and warm place for everyone; it's important to stop bullying because of the link with depression. Being bullied can make victims feel isolated and affect their general feelings of well being - possibly leading to depression. Both bullies and victims can suffer long term negative mental health effects which may not be immediately apparent.

So even if you missed the pink shirt memo today, remember the message all year long. Bullying has negative effects both short and long term - saying no to bullying creates a safer environment for us all.

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