If I report it, will it get worse?

Schools are supposed to protect you from retaliation when you report. Saving proof and telling a trusted adult creates a record, and you can ask for steps to keep you safe while it’s handled.

What if it’s happening online, not at school?

It still counts and you can still report it. Save screenshots that show who sent it and when, use the platform’s reporting tools, and tell a trusted adult — schools often have to respond when online bullying affects you at school.

Bullying help for students

If someone is bullying you, it isn’t your fault and you don’t have to deal with it by yourself. Here’s what actually helps — saving proof, telling someone you trust, and getting it to stop.

Before you start — is anyone in danger right now?

This tool helps you organize and document a situation. It is not for emergencies. If a child is in immediate physical danger, or is talking about suicide or self-harm, get help first.

Call 911 Call or text 988 Text HOME to 741741 All crisis resources

What to do

1
Save the proof first
Screenshot messages or posts with the username and the date/time visible — before you block, delete, or reply.
2
Tell a trusted adult
A parent, teacher, counselor, or coach. Saying it out loud to someone who can help is one of the strongest first steps.
3
Report it
To your school, and use the safety/report tools inside the app or game where it’s happening.
4
If it’s an image or threat, get help fast
If someone pressures you for images or threatens to share them, don’t pay and don’t comply — you’re the victim of a crime, and you can report it.
5
Talk to someone if it’s a lot
You can call or text 988 anytime, or text HOME to 741741. You don’t have to wait until it’s an emergency.

In-depth guides

Cyberbullying checklist

Capture screenshots that actually hold up: keep the URL, username, and date/time visible, capture before deleting, and report to the platform.

Sextortion & image abuse

If someone is pressuring a child for images or threatening to share them, act fast — and know the child is the victim, not the wrongdoer. Where to report and remove.

Resource directory

Trusted national help lines and reporting services, plus how to find your state's anti-bullying law. Every contact verified against the organization's own page.

Free tools for this

Frequently asked questions

If I report it, will it get worse?: Schools are supposed to protect you from retaliation when you report. Saving proof and telling a trusted adult creates a record, and you can ask for steps to keep you safe while it’s handled.
What if it’s happening online, not at school?: It still counts and you can still report it. Save screenshots that show who sent it and when, use the platform’s reporting tools, and tell a trusted adult — schools often have to respond when online bullying affects you at school.

Not sure what to do next?

Pick the step that fits where you are. Everything you enter stays on your device.

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Authoritative sources

General information — not legal advice

This page is general information to help you get organized, not legal or mental-health advice, and it doesn't guarantee any outcome. Laws and policies vary and change. For your specific situation, consult a licensed professional or the relevant agency. In an emergency call 911; for a mental-health crisis call or text 988.

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