Cyberbullying hurts

Most parents think internet safety only means people who hack into your webcam and find out where you live and all that.

I’ve learned that cyberbullying is a way bigger issue than that stuff. A lot of my friends have been bullied on Facebook and Instagram by people they know.

I think it’s because you feel a lot safer behind a keyboard and can be a lot meaner because you think no one can do anything about it. And it seems like adults don’t even know how to react to it since it’s so new.

People don't understand how big of an impact social media can have on your well being because “it's just over the internet.” They don’t get that it's not something you can just walk away from.

I know from experience. I've received threats and comments via Ask.fm and Facebook. I've had groups and pages made about me mocking my physical appearance and personality, and yes, it does hurt me. It has scarred me. And because it's so new, there isn't really much the authorities or parents can do.

Revenge is never the answer. I learned that the hard way.

Although it might get to you, you have to try and rise above it and realize that people who take time out of their lives to create hate pages, or even write rude comments, are hurting and unwell. It will affect you, but just keep in mind they are cowards. The best you can do is surround yourself by people who make you feel good about yourself, and support you.

Have you ever been cyberbullied?