No matter who you are, bullying is an issue that is important. We have all been made to feel different before, and it's something we should not have to deal with in school or elsewhere. Bullying awareness is the first step to making a difference in this area. Knowing about it and what it means makes it easier to leave a positive impact. An impact for ourselves, those we know, and even the people we are not familiar with who need our advocacy.

As with any serious issue, if you or someone you know is experiencing bullying please report it immediately. Talk to a trusted teacher, principal, counselor, or family member. These issues are important and need to be addressed. People care about you, you are valuable, and there is always someone to listen. You are not alone, because bullying is something we have all been through.

If you or someone you know is being bullied, try these simple steps to make a difference.

1 . Say "stop" clearly and confidently. Let people know that you are not okay with improper treatment.

2 . Diffuse the situation. Use humor or simply walk away. This is a great time to go straight to a trusted adult and let them know about the situation.

3 . Talk with people to make them feel comfortable. Even just a few minutes a day can help people express their thoughts, relieve stress, and improve any negative feelings related to bullying experiences.

4 . Stay calm. Feel out the situation and make sure you attempt to understand exactly what is happening so you can effectively advocate for yourself or others.

5 . Act immediately. Whether you're being bullied or witnessing it happen, immediacy is essential. Letting it persist can create deeper problems and trauma.