Every October, communities nationwide stand together to raise awareness about bullying and promote safer, kinder environments. In Alexandria, this effort is part of the Mayor’s Campaign to End Bullying, a long-standing initiative that mobilizes city government, schools, community organizations, youth, older adults, and residents.

What Bullying Looks Like 

Bullying is defined in Virginia as aggressive, unwanted behavior intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate another person. It often involves a real or perceived imbalance of power and can be repeated overtime or severe enough to cause lasting emotional trauma. This definition includes cyberbullying but makes clear that normal peer conflict, arguments, or occasional teasing are not considered bullying. 

In Alexandria, the most visible impact of bullying can be seen in schools. Surveys of local students show that middle schoolers, in particular, report high rates of bullying on school property, while high schoolers report more incidents of cyberbullying. For young people, the effects can be far-reaching. This ranges from social withdrawal and declining grades to anxiety, depression, and difficulty trusting others. Even what seems like a small slight to an outsider can weigh heavily on a child’s confidence and sense of safety. 

The Ripple Effects of Bullying

Bullying harms more than the person targeted. People who witness these behaviors may feel powerless, anxious, or afraid to intervene. Families, meanwhile, are left struggling to help children cope with stress that follows them home long after the school day ends. When bullying goes unaddressed, it creates environments where cruelty feels tolerated, compassion is devalued, and the wider community suffers. 

These impacts don’t disappear with age. Older adults in Alexandria also experience bullying in the form of workplace bullying, elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, and online harassment. For seniors, these experiences can result in fear, mistrust, isolation, and reduce independence and overall wellbeing. The digital age has made this even more complex, as cyberbullying and scams increasingly target older residents. 

Did you Know?

Research shows that 1 in 5 older adults experience bullying, abuse, or harassment. Recognizing bullying is an issue that spans all ages is key to building a safer, more connected Alexandria.

Building a Safer Community

Through the Mayor’s Campaign to End Bullying, the City of Alexandria continues to integrate efforts into schools, recreation centers, libraries, community programs, and city services. The campaign reinforces that bullying is not a private matter and that it affects the entire community.

By raising awareness, offering safe spaces, and encouraging residents to speak up, Alexandria is working to build a culture of respect that stretches across all ages. As bullying prevention month is observed this October, the city encourages everyone to join together in the effort. Together, Alexandria can continue to create a community where every resident feels safe, valued, and empowered. 

Resources 

Mayor’s Campaign to End Bullying: Learn more about the City’s intitiave and access prevention materials: alexandriava.gov/EndBullying

Safe Place & Bully Free Starts with Me: Recreation centers, libraries, and firehouses designated as safe space for youth in crisis: alexandriava.gov/EndBullying

Adult Protective Services (APS): To report suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation in Virginia, call 888.832.3858

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7): Call or text 988 for immediate support for mental health, suicide, or emotional crises (988va.org)

Alexandria Department of Community & Human Services (DCHS): Services and support for youth, families, and older adults: alexandriava.gov/DCHS

Emergency Support: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, dial 911