the high cost of cyberbullying

You might not have ever heard of Amanda Todd, but this morning I want to write about her and about her mother Carol. Nine years ago on this date, Amanda took her own life.  A documentary tells about her suicide, about her bullying, and about the terrible tragedy of bullying. Take a few moments and watch it.  Seriously.  It's important.  Watch with your family and with friends and share it with others.  Dark Cloud: the high cost of cyberbullying can be seen HERE.  The video is only 49 minutes long.

Before I go any farther, I also want to say that every struggle is different.  You CAN overcame crisis though and find hope and recovery.  Reach out.  Call the suicide prevention line.  Get help.  In the US and Canada you can call this number 24hours a day: 1-800-273-8255.

I want to condemn bullying in all of its forms. To intimidate, harm, or coerce someone is unacceptable. All life is precious. Everyone is entitled to respect.

Today is World Mental Health Day, the perfect time for attention to anti-bullying efforts and suicide prevention and for awareness and advocacy against social stigma. Today is the perfect time to educate yourself. Get involved. Listen to the story of Amanda Todd. Work to see that deaths like hers never happen again.

The film I mentioned at the beginning of this is a powerful one and, as I said, an important one. I hope you will watch and hear Amanda Todd's story. It is a tragedy that this young woman from British Columbia, posted a cry-for-help on YouTube and had at least two previous attempts at suicide, but kept being bullied until she felt she could no longer live. The incredible Justin Preston, who founded Rise Against Bullying, and is active in numerous LGBTQ organizations, is also featured in the documentary. Click HERE to watch.

Suicide Prevention Line 1-800-273-8255