Breaking the Chains: Jenny Alexander on Bullying and Resilience
Bullying has lasting impact on anyone, well into adulthood. People feel anxious, depressed and can have suicidal thoughts or self harm as a result.
Bullying isn't just a schoolyard issue; it leaves scars that can last a lifetime. In this episode of The Therapeutic Poet, host Jacky Power sits down with prolific author Jenny Alexander to dissect the complex world of bullying. Drawing from her extensive work, including books like '70 Ways to Bully-Proof Yourself' for children and 'When Your Child is Bullied: An Essential Guide for Parents', Jenny shares invaluable insights into both psychological and physical bullying.
The conversation kicks off with alarming statistics from the 'Ditch the Label' Annual Survey, revealing a 25% increase in bullying year over year. From the toxic behavior of politicians to the isolating effects of social media, many factors contribute to this troubling trend. Jenny delves into why she felt compelled to write about bullying and the profound impacts it has on mental health, including anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. But it's not all doom and gloom.
Jacky and Jenny explore actionable strategies to build resilience, even in the face of ongoing bullying. They discuss the importance of creativity and mental well-being as powerful tools for overcoming these challenges. Whether you're a parent seeking advice or someone who has experienced bullying firsthand, this episode offers practical tips and emotional support to help you navigate this difficult terrain.