Bullying affecting my child

Dear Counsellor:

My daughter reported to me that children are bullying her at school. They stare at her, pinch her and call her names.

She has become quiet and withdrawn. She cries a lot and is refusing to go to school. I am taking her to a therapist for counselling.

- Marie

Dear Marie:

I agree with you to take your daughter to a therapist, as this will help her.

Depression, anxiety, loneliness and suicide are complications of bullying. Low self-esteem and poor school performance are also seen in children who are being bullied.

Bullying needs to be taken seriously, as the consequences can be severe. Speak to the class teacher and the principal about the situation. The principal should put measures in place to make it safe for your daughter. Each school needs to have a policy in place to deal with bullying. There should be a zero-tolerance policy for such behaviour.

teach coping skills

Some states in the United States have laws against bullying. Children should be taught coping skills. They should look the bully in the eye and use 'I' statements to express their feelings.

Make sure that school administrators report the matter to the bullies' parents. Sometimes, the police have to be involved.

Problems sleeping at nights

Dear Counsellor:

Over the past three months, I have been having difficulty sleeping at nights. I go to bed at 2 a.m. and awaken at 5 a.m. I feel tired in the days and am now unhappy about the situation.

- Claire

Dear Claire:

Sleep problems are common, and are caused by a variety of factors. When there are changes in our lives, we may develop sleep problems. The worry and anxiety associated with such adjustments may interfere with our rest patterns. Is this the case? Have you changed your job recently?

Making adjustments at the workplace may be taxing. Making new friends, meeting deadlines and multitasking may also be stressful. Usually, this will settle with time.

Grieving can be associated with sleeplessness. When we lose loved ones, we may have many sleepless nights as we mourn the loss. You may need to get sleeping pills.

Keep a diary by your bedside to write down your thoughts and plans. Sometimes, clearing your mind each night will help you fall asleep. Make sure your bed is comfortable and your pillows are welcoming. In your bedroom, listen to soft music or religious music that is soothing.

Depression is associated with sleeplessness. You may be depressed, so you should see your doctor for a check-up.

Need advice from our counsellor? Email questions and comments for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call her at 978-8602.