We hear about cyber bullying but some of us may not understand how it can affect ones psyche or self esteem.  To some it may just seem like a few jokes but it is actually deeper than that.   The impact can leave mental wounds on the victim that we’ll never know about. It can also lead to something worse. Cyber bulling has led to suicide and even violent retaliation on those who were the bullies.

As defined by StopBullying.org :

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place using electronic technology. Electronic technology includes devices and equipment such as cell phones, computers, and tablets as well as communication tools including social media sites, text messages, chat, and websites.

Examples of cyberbullying include mean text messages or emails, rumors sent by email or posted on social networking sites, and embarrassing pictures, videos, websites, or fake profiles.
For those of us who have never been cyber bullied, or may not be impacted by what seems to be mere words, this may seem like something that is very small.  A couple of mean text messages, words, or photos online won’t or shouldn’t hurt that bad right? Wrong!  Just imagine negativity spreading like a viral wildfire through the social media universe.  In a matter of hours, or even seconds you could have thousands of people (if not millions) making fun of you, slandering you or spreading rumors that the world will now think are true.

Words on social media can cut like a sword!  [bctt tweet=”Watch Tamar Braxton break down as she explains how her self esteem was affected by being called a Muppet”]

What would you do if thousands of people were saying harsh things about you online?