When a child is bullied, both the victim and the bully suffer serious consequences. For the victim, the consequences of being bullied can be long-lasting and included depression and anxiety, difficulty sleeping, changes in eating patterns, substance abuse, and loss of interest in activities. Some children who are bullied avoid school and other activities. They miss out on these activities but also become socially isolated in some cases. Bullying victims also suffer academically with lower grades and test scores. A rare but very serious consequence of bullying is violence perpetrated by the victim on others. Bullying victims may also suffer from physical injuries and health problems.
Bullies also face repercussions from their actions. They are more likely than their peers to abuse drugs and alcohol. They are more likely to get into fights, to drop out of school, and to engage in risky sexual behaviors earlier than their peers. As they grow into adults, bullies are more likely to get in trouble with the law and to commit domestic abuse.
Suicider is a very important potential consequence of bullying that must be taken seriously. Although not all victims of bullying consider suicide, some do and the effects are obviously devastating. Those at most risks for suicide are bullying victims who already had other mental health issues such as depression or traumatic experiences. Specific groups of children are also at a greater risk of suicide exacerbated by bullying: Kids with disabilities and LGBT children.