Bullying at school and physical health: an often underestimated relation

School bullying is a problem that extends far beyond the school sphere. Often perceived as an emotional challenge, its consequences on students’ physical health often remain unrecognized. In this article, we explore the often underestimated links between school bullying and physical health, highlighting the significant impacts this scourge can have on the well-being of young victims.

Harmful effects of bullying on physical health:

School bullying can have a variety of harmful effects on the physical health of victims. Here are some of the most common impacts :

Sleep disorders: Bullying can disrupt victims’ sleep, leading to problems of insomnia or non-restorative sleep. Sleep disorders have a direct impact on physical health, affecting focus and memory, among other things.
Physical pain : Victims of bullying may experience physical pain such as backache, muscle aches and severe headaches. These symptoms may be the result of pressures and stress accumulated in reaction to bullying experiences.
Gastrointestinal problems: The stress of bullying can affect the digestive system, leading to gastrointestinal problems such as upset stomach, nausea and even more serious conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
Reduced immunity: Long-term stress can weaken the immune system, making victims more susceptible to disease. This can lead to an increased frequency of infections, viral diseases and other health problems.
Eating disorders: Some bullied students may develop eating disorders, such as appetite problems or disordered eating behaviors. Emotional stress can influence eating habits, with consequences for nutrition and physical health.
Physical injury: In some cases, bullying can become physical, resulting in direct injury. Victims may suffer physical assaults, blows or injuries, with obvious consequences for their physical health.
Cardiovascular disorders: Chronic stress linked to bullying can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disorders. Studies have shown that prolonged stress can increase the risk of heart disease, particularly through its influence on blood pressure and heart rate.
Endocrine system disorders: bullying can disrupt the functioning of the endocrine system, influencing hormone production. This can have repercussions not only on young people’s growth, but also on the development and functioning of their internal organs.

Netethic: A comprehensive software solution to improve risk prevention

Preventing bullying at school is crucial to mitigating the harmful consequences on students’ physical health. One innovative solution in this area is Netethic, a software solution specifically designed to detect and prevent bullying, thereby helping to reduce its impact on the physical health of victims over the long term.