As parents, we send our children into the world hoping that they come back every day with more knowledge and more confidence. In some cases, unfortunately, bullying can get in the way. Bullying can have serious short- and long-term effects, according to PBS Parents. These include anxiety, low self-esteem and the desire to skip school to avoid the bullies. Bullying, whether it be physical abuse or mental abuse, can eventually lead to even bigger problems, like depression or suicidal tendencies. Knowing how to talk to your child about bullying is the first step to helping them.

If you are a parent who is suffering with the difficulty of having a child who is being bullied, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has some suggestions. Here are some things you can, and should, do to help your child if they are being bullied.

Listen to your child

Ask them what happened and get as many details as possible. Make sure you offer your support more than anything to allow your child to open up.

Remind them that they have done nothing wrong

It is never a good idea to blame the victim, and if you blame your child it may create more problems than the bullying itself.

If it is a problem at school, let someone at the school know

Whether it is a teacher, principal or coach, it is really important to open up and let someone at the school know that there is an issue. Keeping quiet will only allow the bullying to continue.

Do not encourage your child to fight back

If you promote more violence, it may end in getting your child into trouble. It is better to promote standing up for oneself or finding help.

Always maintain open lines of communication with your child

This is very important because it is your only way to stay involved. Talking to your child about bullying will open up a conversation for your child to be honest with you.

Each parent deals with every situation in a different way, but it is important to remember that being bullied can affect your child’s life in the long-run. It is best to give it the proper, required attention before it is too late. Remind your child that they are not alone and that he can get help, both at home and at school.

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