Is this harassment?
I’m currently in college and I’ve been struggling with some guys at school lately. The past month has been incredibly tough, and I genuinely feel like I’m being bullied or harassed. I don’t want to come off as dramatic or accuse anyone unfairly, but it’s become really overwhelming. Over the last month, a group of guys has shouted “f*** you” at me while I was walking on campus, barked at me, called me a lesbo, and one of them even lives above me and knocks loudly on the walls whenever my roommate and I are showering. They’ve also parked beside me multiple times in an empty lot and just stared at me while I listen to music in my car at night. It’s starting to drive me a bit crazy. I can’t shake the feeling that I’ve done something to make me a target, but I have no idea what. Am I overreacting? This isn’t just a one-time thing; it’s happened almost every day since early February, and it’s really taking a toll on me.
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re going through this. What you’re experiencing definitely sounds like harassment and bullying. No one should have to endure that kind of treatment, especially in a place where you should feel safe and comfortable. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed and even questioning if you’re overreacting, but your feelings are valid.
It’s important to remember that you have the right to feel safe and respected on campus. You might want to consider reaching out to someone who can help, like a campus counselor, a trusted professor, or your school’s Title IX office, which deals with harassment and discrimination issues. Documenting these incidents can also be useful if you decide to take further action.
You’re not alone in this, and there are people who can support you. Please take care of yourself, and know that you deserve to be treated with respect.