Bullying

Overview

Bullying involves repeated aggressive behaviour — physical, verbal, relational or digital — intended to harm, humiliate or exert power over another person ^[1]. It can occur in schools, workplaces, families, or online (cyberbullying), and its effects can be long-lasting, influencing emotional regulation, self-esteem, and mental health ^[2,3].

Victims of bullying are at increased risk of anxiety, depression, trauma responses, and somatic symptoms such as headaches and sleep disturbance. Those who bully others may also struggle with anger, low empathy, or unresolved emotional pain.

While formal counselling and community or school interventions are essential, Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Healthcare (TCIH)   approaches can support recovery through nervous-system regulation, self-expression, and restoration of confidence and social safety ^[4,5].

Common Causes and Contributing Factors

Bullying is influenced by multiple personal, social, and environmental factors ^[2,6]:

• Power imbalance – perceived dominance, social status, or physical advantage
• Unresolved trauma – individuals who bully may have experienced neglect, abuse, or violence
• Social or cultural norms – competitive, hierarchical, or exclusionary environments
• Low self-esteem or emotional dysregulation – difficulties expressing anger or fear healthily
• Peer pressure and group identity – fear of exclusion leading to harmful behaviours
• Online disinhibition – anonymity reduces empathy in digital interactions

Signs and Symptoms

People affected by bullying may experience:

• Anxiety, hypervigilance, or withdrawal
• Decline in academic or work performance
• Sleep disturbance or nightmares
• Physical symptoms such as stomach aches or headaches
• Changes in eating patterns or weight
• Low self-esteem, shame, or self-blame
• Avoidance of social settings or isolation
• In severe cases, self-harm or suicidal thoughts ^[3,8]

Holistic and TCIH Approaches

TCIH and holistic approaches focus on restoring emotional safety, releasing trauma from the body, and rebuilding self-worth. These can complement counselling and psychological therapy for a whole-person recovery.
You may wish to explore:

• Mindfulness and Meditation  – cultivate awareness and reduce anxiety triggered by social stress ^[9].
• Yoga Therapy– integrates breath and movement to regulate the nervous system and rebuild confidence ^[10].
• Somatic Therapy  – supports trauma release and embodiment after experiences of threat or humiliation.
• Art Therapy or Music Therapy – encourage self-expression, emotional processing, and resilience through creativity ^[4].
• Counselling or Psychotherapy  – provide safe dialogue to address shame, assert boundaries, and heal relational wounds ^[4].
• Energy Healing / Reiki – may assist in calming the body’s stress response and restoring emotional equilibrium ^[12].
• Group or Community Healing – fosters belonging and empathy, countering isolation

Self-Care and Lifestyle Practices

Complement professional support with gentle daily practices to rebuild self-trust and resilience:

• Practise grounding or breathing techniques when anxiety arises
• Engage in creative outlets (journaling, drawing, music)
• Spend time in supportive, affirming environments
• Move the body regularly — yoga, walking, or dance can release stress
• Set digital boundaries to minimise online exposure to bullying
• Affirm self-worth daily — focus on strengths and achievements
• Seek connection through community or advocacy work

When to Seek Professional Support

Immediate support is essential if bullying leads to persistent fear, social withdrawal, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts. Work with a counsellor, psychologist, or trauma-informed therapist who understands relational and emotional abuse.
A verified SoulAdvisor practitioner specialising in mindfulness, somatic healing, or expressive arts therapy can provide complementary care to support nervous-system balance and self-empowerment.