Bullying and Social Challenges at School

Bullying and social challenges

Children with medical conditions may face many social challenges. They may: 

• Feel left out or different from other students 
• Be left out of group activities or social events 
• Feel unsure how to answer questions about their health condition 
• Worry about going back to school or fitting in 
• Have trouble reconnecting with friends 
• Have medical needs at school, such as using devices or taking medicines 
• Be teased, hear unkind comments, or experience bullying 

Bullying is repeated behavior to hurt, intimidate, or exclude someone. It often involves a person having more power than another, such as strength or social status. Bullying can be: 

• Verbal: name-calling, threatening, or making hurtful comments 
• Social: leaving someone out or spreading rumors 
• Physical: hitting, pushing, or shoving   
• Online (cyberbullying): sending hurtful messages or sharing embarrassing information online 

Why children may face social challenges at school

Some children may be bullied or excluded because of changes related to their health condition or treatment. This may include: 

• Changes in appearance, such as weight changes, scars, or hair loss  
• Fatigue  
• Activity limitations or movement problems 
• The use of mobility devices, such as crutches or wheelchairs 
• Vision, hearing, or speech differences
• Learning, attention, or memory challenges (cognitive effects) 
• Missing school often because of medical appointments or feeling unwell 
• Wearing masks or needing infection precautions 
• Taking medicines or needing other care at school 

These differences are not an excuse for bullying. The person who is bullying others is responsible for their own behavior.   

Signs your child may be having social challenges

If your child is being bullied or having social difficulties, they may: 

• Not want to talk about school 
• Avoid certain people or places 
• Lose interest in activities they once enjoyed 
• Avoid school or social activities (such as playing at recess) 
• Spend more time alone, such as sitting alone at lunch or on the school bus  
• Become upset after using social media or texting 
• Have changes in friendships or withdraw from peers 
• Struggle in school and get lower grades 

They may also have: 

• Anxiety before school 
• Frequent headaches or stomachaches 
• Low self-confidence
• Changes in mood or sleep 

Bullying and social challenges can affect a child’s physical health, emotional health, relationships, and school experience. Some effects may go away quickly. Others may last longer. 

The effects of bullying and social challenges can lead to problems with: 

• Emotional well-being and mental health 
• Friendships and peer relationships 
• Participating in school and social activities 
• Stress-related symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping 
• Learning and school performance 
• Recovery and adherence to medical care 
• Quality of life 

Managing bullying and social challenges

Families, schools, and health care teams can work together to help children feel safe, included, and connected at school. 

Support your child 

You can help your child feel understood, build confidence, cope with challenges, and know where to turn for help. To support your child: 

• Encourage open conversations.  
• Ask questions about school, friends, and what your child is feeling. 
• Listen without judgment. 
• Acknowledge difficult feelings. 
• Reassure your child that bullying and social challenges are not their fault. 
• Talk to them about what makes a good friendship. 
• Role-play with your child about how to set personal boundaries or answer questions. 
• Practice how to deal with situations that might make your child uncomfortable.  
• Let your child know they can talk to a parent, teacher, counselor, coach, school nurse, or another adult they trust if they are being bullied or excluded. 

Learn how to advocate for your child at school.

Help your child stay connected with friends 

Help your child build relationships with peers who accept and value them. Encourage your child to take part in activities that help them build confidence and feel a sense of belonging. 

To help your child stay connected to others: 

• Help your child identify peers who share common interests. 
• Arrange time with supportive friends. 
• Stay in touch with classmates and friends through visits, calls, messages, or virtual classes.  
• Encourage your child to participate in the classroom and other school activities. 
• Look for organizations, summer camps,  or other groups with similar medical conditions or challenges. 
• Find activities or clubs that share your child’s interests or values, such as hobbies, religious groups, or volunteer opportunities. 
• Follow your child’s lead when it comes to social activities and listen to their preferences.  
• Spending time with you and other family members is equally important during this time.  

Work with your child’s school 

Before your child returns to school, talk with school staff about any concerns related to bullying or social challenges. Planning ahead may help your child feel more confident and supported. 

Work with your child’s school to: 

• Keep regular, open communication with teachers and school staff.  
• Talk to your child’s teachers about preparing classmates for your child’s return. 
• Discuss school resources and any support through a 504 Plan or IEP if needed. 
• Understand school policies for bullying, including how to report and what follow-up to expect. 
• Report bullying or social concerns immediately. Ask how concerns will be addressed. 
• Keep a record of concerning events, including when they happened, who was involved, and how the school responded. 
• Consider sharing bullying concerns through email so they are documented and time-stamped.   

Find out what school support may be available to meet your child’s needs. 

Partner with your care team 

Your care team can be an important partner when social challenges affect school, friendships, or emotional well-being. They can help identify concerns, recommend resources, and work with the school to support your child's needs. 

To partner with your child’s health care team: 

• Talk about any concerns related to bullying, friendships, or problems at school. 
• Discuss ways to help teachers and classmates understand your child's condition. 
• Ask about support groups, camps, or programs that can help your child connect with others who have similar experiences. 
• Ask what signs of anxiety, depression, or ongoing social challenges you should watch for at home. 
• Request referrals to providers of mental health services, such as social work, psychology, or child life services. 

When to seek additional help

Contact your child's care team, school counselor, or mental health provider if your child: 

• Refuses to go to school 
• Shows ongoing worry or sadness 
• Has major changes in sleep or eating habits 
• Is being repeatedly bullied   
• Talks about hurting themselves or feeling hopeless 

A mental health professional can provide support based on your child’s needs. 

Questions to ask the care team

• How can I help my child prepare to return to school? 
• What should I tell teachers or school staff about my child's condition? 
• Are there resources to help classmates understand my child's illness? 
• What signs of anxiety, depression, or bullying should I watch for? 
• When should I seek mental health support for my child? 
• Are there local or online support groups for children with similar experiences? 

Related Content