If you’ve been bullied or belittled at home, school, work or online, you don’t have to suffer alone. There are 4 helplines in Germany for people who’ve been victims of bullying. Bullying can be physical or psychological, direct or indirect, but whatever form it takes, it always hurts. Bullying can look like:

Others have openly excluded you from social groups or activities.
You have had rumours spread about you, or frequently been blamed for things you didn’t do.
One or more people has repeatedly called you names and teased or humiliated you.
You have been victimised by cyber-bullies who share secrets, rumours or negative comments about you.
Someone has shared private, negative, false or harmful pictures, content or rumours about you.
One or more people have repeatedly sworn at, called names, taunted or physically harassed you.
You have been taunted, teased, threatened or harmed by others.
Someone has repeatedly made inappropriate or discriminatory comments about you.

Bullying takes many forms, but it always leaves victims feeling lonely, humiliated and weak. Remember, bullies try to boost their power at the expense of others. Bullying is selfish, and never deserved by the victim. Although you feel alone, there are people you can trust and turn to for support.

The victims of bullying come from all walks of life, from every school, playground, workplace and online platform. You may be sceptical about whether helpline support in Germany will work for you, especially if you have been treated badly in the past. The good news is that helpline staff are well-trained to help people with experiences like yours.