O n Monday, October 20th, marked World Anti-Bullying Day, prompting the Public Security Police (PSP) to emphasize the “importance of promoting respect, empathy, and tolerance in all communities, especially in schools.”
“The PSP works daily to prevent, raise awareness, and take action against such behavior, through community engagement and citizenship education programs. Respecting is protecting, and the PSP reminds everyone that they have a role in creating a safe environment where each person can feel valued and respected,” according to a social media post.
The PSP offers advice to “parents, guardians, and the entire school community” to be mindful of the following victim behaviors:
- Eating and/or sleep disturbances;
- Lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed;
- Decline in school performance;
- Change of friends;
- Suicide attempts and/or threats;
What are the signs and/or indicators?
- Bruises, cuts, or scratches;
- Headaches and/or stomachaches;
- Anxiety/depression;
- Damaged or missing school materials;
- Aggressiveness, shyness, or isolation;
How to help?
- Do not discriminate or criticize;
- Include victims in group activities;
- Encourage participation in activities they enjoy;
- Promote self-esteem;
- Do not share content depicting such behaviors online;
The PSP further states that “officers assigned to the School Safety Program (EPES) are always ready to receive reports, advise, and support victims and their families.” They also mention that reports can be made “either in person or via email at es**********@*sp.pt.”
Notably, on Monday, the PSP launched a nationwide operation ‘Bullying is for the Weak’ targeting elementary and secondary school students, as well as teachers and parents.
In a statement, the PSP announced that for two weeks, “awareness actions” will be intensified through their School Safety Program (EPES), focusing on the topics of ‘bullying’ and ‘cyberbullying’ within the school community.
GNR has held 336 actions related to ‘bullying’
On the same day, another security force, the National Republican Guard (GNR), indicated having conducted 336 awareness actions this school year relating to bullying and cyberbullying, reaching 12,945 children.
In a statement, the GNR noted that in the last school year (2024/2025), 119 incidents were recorded, 106 of which were related to ‘bullying’ and 13 to ‘cyberbullying’.
Most cyberbullying victims do not seek adult help
The Portuguese Psychology Association (OPP) highlighted that the majority of children and young people victims of cyberbullying do not seek help from adults due to fear or shame, thus releasing a guide for parents and caregivers on cyberbullying, urging dialogue.
Most victims do not seek help from those closest to them out of fear of what they might think and fear of losing access to digital technologies, the OPP stated in a press release that advises parents and caregivers to talk to children and young people about cyberbullying.
