A recent study has highlighted bullying as the most significant factor contributing to youth distress in Finland, according to both public opinion and professionals working with young people. The findings come just weeks ahead of UNESCO’s Anti-Bullying Day, set to be observed on November 7, 2024.
Conducted by Verian (formerly Kantar), the study underscores that bullying is the primary reason behind the growing mental health struggles among young people.
This aligns with observations from Vamos, a Finnish program by the Deaconess Foundation that has been supporting marginalized youth for over 15 years.
"The results are in line with what we witness daily—bullying experiences are some of the most traumatizing events in a young person’s life," said Terhi Laine, director at the Deaconess Foundation.
The survey, commissioned by Rinnekodit, a social enterprise of the Deaconess Foundation, gathered responses from 1,055 Finns on youth polarization and the causes of their distress. According to the results, 48% of respondents identified bullying as the top contributor to youth problems. Other notable causes included family communication challenges (43%) and mental health issues (36%).
The Lingering Impact of Bullying, But Hope for Healing
For over 15 years, Vamos has been working with young people facing challenging life circumstances. Time and again, they have found that bullying—and sometimes outright violence—remains the leading cause of long-term anxiety and distress among youth.
"Bullying leaves scars that never completely fade, but it's possible to build a good, fulfilling life afterward. For young people, the future is still open, and they can find their path, even after enduring long periods of hardship. We witness these transformations regularly," Laine added.
Bullying can create lasting difficulties for young people, making social interactions and daily routines a struggle long after the incidents occur. Many who have been bullied feel socially anxious, find it hard to trust others, and may even have old fears resurface during new life experiences, such as starting school or a new job. These painful memories can follow them well into adulthood and the workplace.
Support Through Genuine and Individualized Care
Vamos offers a simple yet effective approach to supporting bullied youth, one that emphasizes patience and individualized care. At the heart of their program are two key elements: a trusted adult who listens and a peer group where every individual is valued.
Support always starts with the young person’s specific needs and desires.
"It’s essential to approach the young person holistically. They are the best experts in their own lives and deserve to be seen and accepted for who they are," Laine explained.
For many bullied youth, peer support groups are crucial. These groups may offer the first experience of being part of an equal, accepting community—an essential step in healing from the trauma of bullying.
HT
