It’s time for a serious change in our schools. Too many teachers and adults are turning a blind eye to bullying.
I’ve come across countless stories online about students, especially in high school, struggling with severe mental health issues as a result of bullying. I’ve personally faced bullying, and it’s left a lasting impact, even years later.
The issue is that when someone gets bullied—even if it doesn’t seem extreme—the school often fails to intervene. For instance, when I was in Year 7, I cut my hair short, and as a girl, I was relentlessly teased with names like “trans.” The daily bullying led me to pile on makeup and grow out my hair. Thankfully, I had supportive parents and friends by my side, but the school administrators did nothing despite being fully aware of what was happening. The main bullies faced no consequences—no detentions, nothing.
That’s my experience, but I’ve seen cases that are far worse. Teachers truly need to take action. Bullies should face serious repercussions—detentions for the first offense, and escalating to suspension or expulsion for repeat behaviors.
There’s also the issue of makeup. Years later, I still wear makeup as a confidence booster, but my school has suddenly imposed strict rules prohibiting any makeup at all. For many girls who struggle with insecurity, makeup is a way to express ourselves, and it doesn’t disrupt anyone else’s learning. I’ve received numerous detentions over it, and my mom is on my side. The only excuse I get from my head of year for why I need to remove my makeup is that it “distracts” others. Honestly, I wouldn’t even need to wear makeup if I hadn’t been bullied in the first place. If others are getting distracted, that’s their issue, not mine.
We need to take bullying seriously and rethink these policies. Change is essential!
I completely understand where you’re coming from, and I really appreciate you sharing your experience. It’s heartbreaking to hear that schools often fail to take bullying seriously, especially when it can have such long-lasting effects on mental health. It’s really disheartening when the adults who are supposed to support students aren’t stepping up.
Your story about the makeup ban really highlights the struggle many students face: trying to express themselves and feel confident while navigating an environment that can feel so judgmental. It’s unfair that instead of addressing the root cause of bullying—kids being unkind—schools focus on punishing the victims. Makeup, for many, is not just about aesthetics; it’s a way to build confidence, and it can be particularly important for those who have faced bullying.
You’re right that schools need stronger policies to deal with bullying. Consequences for bullies, along with a more nurturing environment where students feel safe to speak up, are essential. Everyone deserves to feel secure and supported at school.
I hope that by raising awareness and sharing stories like yours, we can push for positive changes in how schools handle these issues. It’s important for students to feel heard and to have their concerns taken seriously. You’re not alone in this, and your voice can help inspire the change that’s so needed. Stay strong, and keep advocating for what’s right!