Did you know that Malaysia is one of the top countries where parents have reported their children experiencing cyberbullies?1 In Asia, Malaysia ranked second for cyberbullying among youth. 1 The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has reported that 3 out of 10 young Malaysians have been a victim of cyberbullies in the country. 2 This issue needs to be taken seriously as cyberbullying is linked to depression in teenagers, and teens typically suffered cyberbullying in silence. 3
Cyberbullying can have a significant impact on our minds and cause a deterioration in mental health. 4 Victims of cyberbullying may succumb to anxiety, depression, and other stress-related conditions. The added stress of coping with cyberbullying on a regular basis can steal their feelings of happiness and contentment. 5On the other hand, the bullies are more likely than non-bullies to engage in a range of maladaptive and antisocial behaviours, and they are at risk of alcohol and drugs dependency; like victims,they have an increased risk of depression and suicidal ideation. 6
Here’s how cyberbullying can impact mental health:5
Cyber bullying contributes to deadly long-term effects to the victims as it is not only traumatising but also affects their mental state, emotions, concentration, social skills, trust and behaviour. 2 If you are a victim or bully, please seek for professional help now, as cyberbullying can have a huge collateral damage in the long run. 2
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References:
1. Wan Xiang, Y. Malaysia Ranks 2nd In Asia For Cyberbullying Among Youth. Available From: https://says.com/my/news/malaysia-ranks-2nd-in-asia-for-cyberbullying-among-children-blues Accessed on 1 December 2021.
2. Norazlinda, M. Let’s Put A Stop To Cyber Bullying, The Faceless Beast. Available From: https://www.bernama.com/en/thoughts/news.php?id=1979465-blues Accessed on 1 December 2021.
3. Stephanie, P. Cyberbullying on Social Media Linked To Teen Depression. Available From: https://www.livescience.com/51294-cyberbullying-social-media-teen-depression.html-blues Accessed on 1 December 2021.
4. Healthshots. 3 ways in which cyberbullying can impact your mental health. Available From: https://www.healthshots.com/mind/mental-health/3-ways-in-which-cyberbullying-can-impact-your-mental-health-blues/ Accessed on 1 December 2021.
5. . Sherri, G. The Real-Life Effects of Cyberbullying on Children. Available From: https://www.verywellfamily.com/what-are-the-effects-of-cyberbullying-460558-blues/ Accessed on 1 December 2021.
6. . Cowie, H. Cyberbullying and its impact on young people emotional and well-being. The Pscyhiatrist 2013, 37, pp 167-170, doi: 10.1192/pb.bp.112.040840
