HHS: October marks Bullying Prevention Awareness Month

Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services, announced this week that October is Bullying Prevention Awareness Month.

Bullying affects nearly 30% of adolescents in the United States, including those who report being a victim, bully or both, according to a press release.

During the month, HHS will launch numerous programs and initiatives to increase awareness, including media guidelines for bullying prevention developed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA); a mobile app to aid parents in starting a discussion on bullying with their children, also developed by SAMHSA; and a bullying prevention training center to include training materials for educators and community leaders, developed by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

"We know that there are a number of emotional effects that can result from bullying, such as depression and anxiety," Sebelius said in the press release. "There are also physical effects as well, like headaches and stomachaches and sleep problems."

For more information:

http://www.stopbullying.gov