National Suicide Prevention Month: How to protect your children online

In today’s digital age, children are more connected than ever before. Whether it’s through social media, gaming platforms, or messaging apps, the internet has become a central part of their social lives. However, with this connectivity comes a darker side: cyberbullying. Unlike traditional bullying, which might end when the school day does, cyberbullying can follow a child home, permeating every aspect of their life.

The impact of cyberbullying can be devastating, and in some cases, it can lead to mental health struggles like anxiety, depression, and even suicide. As a parent, it’s vital to take an active role in protecting your children from these online threats. Let’s explore the growing dangers of cyberbullying, its alarming connection to suicide, and actionable steps you can take to safeguard your child’s well-being.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of this important crisis, shifting public perception, and spreading hope to those affected by suicide. This makes it the perfect time to have a conversation about how we can protect our children from the harmful effects of cyberbullying and create safer online environments.

Feel free to jump to the sections that interest you the most:

• What is cyberbullying?
• Alarming connection between cyberbullying and suicide
• Active parenting
• Digital tools
• Teaching your child to navigate the online world safely
• What to do if your child is being cyberbullied
• Stay informed, stay active, stay involved
• FAQs

What is cyberbullying and how does it differ from traditional bullying?

Cyberbullying refers to the use of digital devices, such as phones, computers, or tablets, to harass, threaten, or harm another person. This can take many forms, including sending hurtful messages, spreading rumors, sharing private information, or excluding someone from an online group. The key difference between cyberbullying and traditional bullying is that it happens online, making it much harder for children to escape. It’s not limited to school hours; it can happen at any time, anywhere.

Examples of cyberbullying:

1. Harassment: Sending persistent, hurtful, or threatening messages.
2. Exclusion: Deliberately leaving someone out of an online group or conversation.
3. Doxxing: Sharing someone’s personal information online without their consent.
4. Impersonation: Creating fake profiles or posing as someone else to embarrass or harm them.
5. Spreading rumors: Sharing false information or gossip that can damage someone’s reputation.

In many cases, children who are victims of cyberbullying feel trapped, as the attacks can be anonymous or difficult to trace. This constant sense of being watched or harassed can significantly impact a child’s mental health, leading to feelings of isolation, fear, and even hopelessness.

The alarming connection between cyberbullying and suicide

Cyberbullying is more than just hurtful words—it can have life-threatening consequences. Studies show a clear connection between cyberbullying and mental health issues, particularly among adolescents. According to a study by the Cyberbullying Research Center, victims of cyberbullying are nearly twice as likely to attempt suicide compared to those who have not been bullied online.

Children and teens who are repeatedly targeted by online bullies often experience a decline in their self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness, and severe anxiety. In some cases, these emotions can become overwhelming, leading them to believe that there is no way out. As a parent, it’s crucial to recognize the warning signs that your child may be experiencing cyberbullying and take steps to intervene.

Warning signs that your child may be a victim of cyberbullying:

• Sudden withdrawal from social activities: If your child suddenly avoids social media, gaming, or interacting with friends online, it could be a red flag.
• Changes in mood or behavior: Look for signs of irritability, sadness, or anger that seem to be triggered after online interactions.
• Declining academic performance: A noticeable drop in grades or loss of interest in school may indicate that your child is struggling emotionally.
• Unexplained physical complaints: Headaches, stomachaches, or other physical symptoms without a clear medical cause can sometimes be linked to emotional distress.
• Avoiding conversations about online activities: If your child becomes defensive or evasive when asked about their online habits, it may indicate that something is wrong.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10–24. In 2019, 18.8% of high school students seriously considered attempting suicide. These sobering statistics highlight the urgency of addressing cyberbullying before it escalates to a crisis point.

Active parenting: The key to protecting your children online

As a parent, one of the most important things you can do to help protect your children from cyberbullying is to be actively involved in their online lives. While it may feel daunting, knowing what your child is doing online is crucial in safeguarding their well-being. Here are some key strategies for staying involved and creating a safe digital environment for your child.

1) Monitor social media activity

Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are common places where cyberbullying occurs. Make sure to:

• Regularly check your child’s accounts: Be aware of their posts, who they are interacting with, and any private messages they receive.
• Friend or follow your child’s accounts: This allows you to have some insight into their online interactions while respecting their privacy.
• Set privacy controls: Ensure that your child’s accounts are set to private, limiting who can view their profile and send them messages.

2) Set screen time limits

Excessive time online can increase your child’s exposure to negative content, including cyberbullying. Use parental control features to:

• Limit daily screen time: Designate specific hours for online activities and encourage offline hobbies.
• Schedule device-free time: Encourage family activities without digital distractions, such as game nights or outdoor outings.
• Disable notifications: Constant notifications can heighten anxiety. Turning them off can help your child disengage from online pressures.

3) Keep communication open

Children are often reluctant to talk about cyberbullying out of fear of being punished or losing access to their devices. Create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their online experiences by:

• Regularly asking about their online life: Ask open-ended questions like “What’s happening online today?” or “Have you seen anything online that upset you?”
• Listening without judgment: If your child shares a difficult experience, listen carefully and avoid reacting with anger or frustration.
• Reassuring them of your support: Let your child know that their safety and well-being come first, and that you are there to help them navigate any problems that arise.

4) Use parental control software

Parental control tools are an essential resource for monitoring your child’s online behavior and protecting them from harmful content. Popular software options include:

• Bark: Monitors text messages, emails, and social media for signs of cyberbullying, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
• Qustodio: Tracks browsing history, blocks inappropriate websites, and sets time limits on apps and games.
• Net Nanny: Filters online content, monitors social media, and sends real-time alerts about suspicious activity.

These tools not only help you monitor your child’s digital world but also give you the opportunity to step in if you notice troubling patterns.

Digital tools for monitoring and managing online behavior

Today’s parents have access to a wide range of apps and tools that can help them keep a close eye on their child’s online activity. These tools are designed to protect children from cyberbullying, monitor their online interactions, and block harmful content. Here are some helpful digital tools for monitoring and managing your child’s online behavior.

1) Social media monitoring tools

• Bark: Alerts parents to potential cyberbullying, adult content, and suicidal ideation across social media platforms, text messages, and emails.
• MMGuardian: Allows parents to monitor texts, calls, and app usage, as well as set time limits on phone usage.
• SafeToNet: Offers real-time monitoring of online conversations to detect harmful language and content.

2) Content filtering software

• Qustodio: Provides comprehensive content filtering, time management, and social media monitoring.
• Net Nanny: Filters inappropriate content, monitors social media use, and provides insights into your child’s browsing history.
• Norton Family: Blocks harmful websites, manages screen time, and helps parents monitor social media usage.

3) Time management tools

• Apple Screen Time: Built into iOS devices, Screen Time allows parents to set daily limits on app usage, monitor activity, and block specific websites.
• Google Family Link: Designed for Android devices, this tool lets parents set screen time limits, remotely lock devices, and track app usage.

Using these tools helps parents strike a balance between monitoring their children’s online behavior and respecting their privacy, while ensuring that they are safe from potential dangers.

Teaching your child to navigate the online world safely

While monitoring tools are essential, they’re not a substitute for teaching your child how to navigate the digital world safely. By equipping your child with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to potential dangers, you can help them make smart decisions online.

1. Online safety basics

Teach your child the importance of protecting their personal information online. Remind them to:

• Never share passwords: Encourage your child to create strong passwords and keep them private, even from close friends.
• Avoid sharing personal details: Explain the risks of sharing personal information, such as their home address, school name, or phone number, with strangers or on public platforms.
• Think before posting: Teach your child to think carefully before sharing pictures or personal updates, reminding them that anything posted online can be permanent and might be seen by people they don’t intend to share with.
• Be wary of strangers online: Just like in real life, children should be cautious of talking to strangers online. Emphasize that not everyone is who they claim to be on the internet, and people they meet online may not have good intentions.

2. Digital literacy

It’s crucial that your child understands that not everything they encounter online is accurate or safe. Helping them become digitally literate can reduce their chances of falling victim to cyberbullying or other online threats.

• Spotting red flags: Teach your child to recognize suspicious behavior, fake profiles, and phishing attempts. If something feels off, encourage them to tell you right away.
• Misinformation awareness: Explain that not everything they see or read online is true. Help your kids develop critical thinking skills to evaluate the accuracy of online information, especially when it involves sensitive or personal topics.

3. Encourage responsible behavior

In addition to protecting your child from cyberbullying, it’s important to teach them to be responsible digital citizens. They should understand that their online behavior can affect others, and they should treat people with kindness and respect.

• Foster empathy: Encourage your child to think about how their words and actions online can impact others. Teach them the importance of being kind and respectful, even in digital spaces.
• Discourage participation in cyberbullying: Make it clear that participating in or encouraging cyberbullying is just as harmful as being the bully. Teach them how to stand up for peers who may be targeted or report instances of cyberbullying to an adult.

By teaching your children these online safety basics and digital literacy skills, you can help them navigate the internet confidently while protecting themselves from harmful situations.

What to do if your child is being cyberbullied

Despite your best efforts to monitor and guide your child’s online behavior, they may still encounter cyberbullying. If you suspect or discover that your child is being cyberbullied, it’s essential to act quickly and effectively. Here are the steps you help can take to help your child if they are a victim of cyberbullying:

1) Document the incidents

• Take screenshots: Encourage your child to save any hurtful messages, comments, or images. If necessary, you can use this documentation to report the bullying to social media platforms, schools, or even legal authorities.
• Keep records of dates and times: Make note of when the cyberbullying occurs, so you can provide an accurate account if the situation escalates.

2) Block the bully

• Block the user: Most social media platforms and messaging apps have a feature that allows users to block others. Blocking the bully can stop the harassment and give your child a sense of control over the situation.
• Report the account: In addition to blocking, report the bullying behavior to the platform. Many social media platforms have specific guidelines against cyberbullying and will take action to remove offensive content or suspend accounts.

3) Contact the school

• Inform school authorities: Schools have a responsibility to address bullying, even when it happens online. If the cyberbullying involves classmates, notify teachers, school counselors, or administrators so they can take appropriate action.
• Ask for support services: Many schools offer counseling services or anti-bullying programs that can help your child cope with the emotional toll of cyberbullying.

4) Seek professional help

• Consider therapy: If your child is showing signs of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts, seeking professional help is critical. A licensed therapist or counselor can help your child process their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
• Contact a suicide prevention hotline: If your child is in immediate danger or experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact a suicide prevention hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, which is now a three-digit code, or text “HELLO” to 988.

5) Consider legal intervention

In extreme cases, cyberbullying can escalate to criminal behavior, such as harassment or threats of violence. If the bullying is severe and poses a safety risk to your child, you may want to contact law enforcement to explore legal options.

Taking these steps not only helps protect your child but also sends a clear message that cyberbullying is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Stay informed, stay active, stay involved

The internet is a vast and sometimes dangerous place, especially for children who may not fully understand the risks they face. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to take an active role in their digital lives—because protection starts with knowledge. Knowing what your child is doing online, setting boundaries, and fostering open communication are key to preventing cyberbullying and protecting their mental health.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness of this critical issue, shift public perception, and spread hope to those affected by suicide. Let this month serve as a reminder that cyberbullying is a serious threat to the well-being of children and teens, and we must all work together to protect them from harm.

By using parental control tools, staying connected to your child’s online experiences, and educating them on safe online practices, you can create a secure environment where they feel empowered to navigate the digital world without fear. Most importantly, remember that no tool or app can replace the value of being an engaged and supportive parent.

Stay vigilant, stay informed, and remember that you are your child’s greatest advocate when it comes to protecting them online. Together, we can make the internet a safer place for all children.

By actively engaging with your child and utilizing the tools and strategies outlined in this post, you can protect your kids from the harmful effects of cyberbullying and foster a healthy, safe online environment. Stay informed, and take action today to ensure your child is protected.

Frequently Asked Questions