If you’ve suffered at the hands of a bully, you may feel rejected, ashamed and alone. Bullies use perceived power, such as size, popularity and secrets, to repeatedly victimise others. You are not alone, there are 4 helplines in Malawi where you can get the support and understanding you deserve. If you relate to any of the following, reach out for help:

A popular or forceful person has told others not to be friends with you.
Someone has shared private, negative, false or harmful pictures, content or rumours about you.
You have been threatened or physically tripped, pushed, hit, kicked or spat at by someone.
You have been repeatedly threatened or harmed by others.
Have you been publicly laughed at, taunted or purposely left out of groups and activities
You have repeatedly been the victim of threatening gestures or physically harassment
You have been the victim of pranks, rumours, naming and shaming online.
You have been victimised by cyber-bullies who share secrets, rumours or negative comments about you.

These are all ways in which bullies might try to boost their status at your expense, making you feel shamed, isolated and small. Yet, bullying in no way reflects who you truly are, what you’re capable of achieving, how you actually look, or how much you are valued by others.

Right now, you might feel helpless, excluded or afraid. You may be unsure about contacting a helpline for support because of how you have been treated previously. However, helpline staff in Malawi are well-trained in helping people like you who have been bullied. You will be treated with kindness and understanding.