Bullying

Understanding its impact and rebuilding confidence, safety, and self-worth

Bullying can occur at any age and in many settings — school, university, the workplace, online spaces, relationships, and communities. It may involve repeated criticism, exclusion, humiliation, threats, intimidation, or misuse of power.

Being bullied can deeply affect how a person feels about themselves and the world. Many people carry the emotional impact long after the bullying has stopped.

Bullying is never a reflection of your worth. It is an experience that can be painful, confusing, and isolating — and it is something you deserve support with.

At SGI Psychology in Preston (Northern Suburbs of Melbourne), our psychologists provide effective, evidence-based support for people affected by bullying.

How bullying can affect you

Bullying may lead to:

  • anxiety or constant fear

  • low self-esteem or self-doubt

  • shame or feelings of defectiveness

  • depression or withdrawal

  • difficulties trusting others

  • anger or emotional overwhelm

  • problems with sleep or concentration

  • avoidance of school, work, or social settings

  • physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach pain

  • a lasting sense of being unsafe

For some people, bullying becomes a traumatic experience, especially when it is ongoing or occurs during childhood or adolescence.

Bullying across the lifespan

Bullying is not limited to school:

  • children and adolescents may experience peer bullying

  • university students may face social exclusion or harassment

  • adults may experience workplace bullying

  • online spaces can amplify harm through cyberbullying

  • relational bullying can occur within families or relationships

Each context brings unique challenges, and therapy can be tailored to your situation.

How therapy can help

Therapy provides a safe space to:

  • make sense of what happened

  • reduce self-blame and shame

  • rebuild confidence and self-worth

  • manage anxiety and emotional distress

  • process traumatic experiences

  • develop assertiveness and boundaries

  • restore a sense of safety

  • reconnect with strengths and values

Support is not about “toughening up.” It is about healing and reclaiming your voice and sense of self.

Approaches we use

Your psychologist may draw from:

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Compassion-Focused Therapy

  • Trauma-informed care

  • Mindfulness-based strategies

  • Skills for assertiveness and boundaries

Therapy is collaborative, respectful, and paced at your comfort level.

Our location

SGI Psychology is based in Preston, in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, offering:

  • in-person psychology appointments

  • Telehealth sessions Australia-wide

Book an appointment

If bullying has affected your wellbeing, confidence, or daily life, you can:

You deserve safety, respect, and effective support.

Book a Session