Bullying in NZ schools?

This is hard for me to post, I don't want sympathy, I just want to help get a message across. I also understand that not everyone goes through it to this extent, but a lot do. For reference, I went to Primary and HS north of Auckland.

I was bullied to the point of being suicidal at school. I was unable to concentrate on my studies and had no social life, all because I was a little too quiet and introverted for the other kids. They do not understand the damage they are causing to each other mentally and often do not care. I have to add, the teachers were some of the biggest bullies I came across (my first bullies were my teachers in primary school). My parents didn't seem to care because they were working themselves to death to house, clothe and feed us. Neglecting the emotional support that was sorely needed.

The best thing I did for my mental health was leave school at age 15 and get a job so that I could feel like I was worth something. Because I was constantly told I was worthless at school. Sadly, the depression from those formative days never really goes away, it just ebbs and flows. I am constantly pushing people away to this day, because it's easier than having someone get close enough to point out your flaws and hurt you.

New Zealand has one of the highest suicide rates amongst young males in the developed world. The ones who never experienced it will say it doesn't happen. The ones stuck somewhere in the middle like myself are just trying to forget about it and move on. The ones who experienced it to the point where it devastates them no longer have a voice. Of the two friends I had at school, one hung himself at age 17 and the other I had to desperately plead with not to end himself. All of this at the hands of children and their callousness towards others.

My advice is to be involved with your children and talk to them. They will never be completely in the clear when it comes to this, no matter where you live. They need to understand they are loved and that you will back them 100% of the time. Be involved, let them know you are there for them. That is your only safety net.

/r/newzealand Thread