Bullying
Bullying
By Dodi Haug, Prevention Coordinator with the Human Service Agency
Bullying has long been a concern for parents, educators and communities. However, the way young people experience bullying continues to change. Today, bullying can happen not only in school hallways and classrooms, but also through phones, social media and online communication. This makes it more difficult for young people to escape.
South Dakota data show that bullying among students has increased over the past decade. According to the SD Youth Risk Behavior Survey report, from 2013 to 2023, the percentage of students who reported being electronically bullied increased. In 2023, approximately 19% of students reported being electronically bullied during the previous 12 months. Electronic bullying can include harmful or threatening messages, posts, comments or other interactions through texting and social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and others.
Social media adds another layer to the issue. It can be a valuable source of connection, support and prevention resources for young people who are struggling. At the same time, social media can spread inaccurate information, harmful messages and, unfortunately, unsafe content related to suicide. Content posted following a suicide can also have a significant impact on vulnerable young people.
That is why adults need to pay attention to what young people are experiencing online and in person.
Bullying on school property has also increased. In 2023, 26.8% of students reported being bullied at school.
These numbers are more than statistics. They represent young people who may be dealing with rejection, embarrassment, fear, isolation or feelings of hopelessness.
Bullying should be taken seriously, particularly when a student is experiencing ongoing or severe bullying. A student who is being bullied should be checked on, supported and, when appropriate, asked directly about hopelessness and thoughts of suicide. Research has found an important association between bullying and suicide risk.
This does not mean that bullying causes every suicide or that one person or one event is responsible. Suicide is complex and usually involves multiple contributing factors. Mental health concerns that are untreated or undertreated can increase risk, which is why early identification, support and access to appropriate mental health care are so important.
There is an important message for parents, educators and other caring adults: talking with young people about suicide does not cause them to think about suicide. In fact, asking a young
person how they are doing and giving them an opportunity to talk can help relieve anxiety and allow them to share concerns they may have been carrying alone.
The good news is that suicide is preventable, and there are things adults and communities can do to reduce risk. Young people benefit from stable and supportive families, positive connections at school, friendships and connections with other young people, access to mental health care, problem-solving skills and awareness of crisis resources. Faith and community connections can also provide important sources of belonging and support.
Ultimately, preventing suicide is not about finding someone or something to blame. It is about recognizing when a young person is struggling, taking concerns seriously and connecting that young person with caring adults and appropriate support.
Every student deserves to feel safe, valued and connected—both at school and online. A simple conversation, a trusted adult and a willingness to listen can make a meaningful difference.
If you are concerned about a young person, don't assume someone else will step in. Ask. Listen. Connect. Support. Sometimes, being willing to start the conversation is the first step toward helping a young person find hope.
On September 9, 2026, Glacial Lakes SAFE (Suicide Awareness For Everyone) will be hosting their annual suicide prevention walk and remembrance ceremony at the Watertown National Guard Readiness Center at 5:30pm. For more information, go to glsafe.org or call 605-884-3518.
Information for this article was taken from South Dakota K-12 Schools Guide to Prevent Suicide Toolkit (GPS-T) and the SD Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) Data and Reports. To learn more, follow us on Facebook (NE Prevention Resource Center) or reach out to us at neprc@humanserviceagency.org or 605-884-3516.