It's time we all had a good talk about bullying

OUR SAY: The tragic and unfortunate death of 14-year-old Dolly Everett is hard to ignore.

We need to do all we can to prevent more tragedies like the death of 14-year-old Dolly Everett. Picture: Bev Lacey

OUR SAY: The tragic and unfortunate death of 14-year-old Dolly Everett is hard to ignore.

This story has touched so many people across Australia.

I hope it reaches people, so they know there is help out there available to them.

I also hope it makes a lot of people take a long hard look at themselves.

Because there are a lot of people posting horrible stuff on social media these days, not only teenagers but adults too.

Comments that are awful and cruel and do not need to be said.

When I was Dolly's age I experienced some in-school bullying by a group of girls.

I want to say it is a normal thing to go through - but that just makes me sad for anyone who does experience what I did.

I now realise it should not have happened but I was too scared to speak up.

Mostly it was simple things over my appearance and I am thankful this was a time before Facebook and Snap Chat.

I ended up leaving and going to a new school where I was much happier and never experienced bullying again. But the damage doesn't ever fully go away.

Hopefully Dolly's death will generate some change with bullying and saves lives.

If you or anyone you know needs support call Lifeline on 131 114, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 or visit Lifeline.org.au.
 

Originally published as It's time we all had a good talk about bullying