Since the rise of social media and the widespread use of cyber communication, cyber-bullying has blighted Ireland. In Donegal, countless young people struggle with online abuse.
In 2012, Erin Gallagher, who was just 13 at the time, took her own life. Tragically, 6 weeks later her sister Shannon aged 15, also took her own life.
The late Erin and Shannon Gallagher
The girl’s mum Lorraine had claimed at the time that Erin was being bullied on the Ask.fm social media site and that she had mentioned this in her suicide note. An inquest into her death is set to take place on the 17th of August.
A new website, Cybersmarties.com, has been launched this year in order to highlight cyber-bullying issues to children, parents, and teachers. The site is mainly aimed towards primary school children. The site uses in-built security software to allow kids to use social media in a controlled and safe environment without the fear of harassment or cyber-bullying.
This educates and empowers them to protect their own wellbeing, promoting self-awareness and awareness of others. This is the first multi-purpose educational platform which uses Behavioural Technology and SMART content filters, to positively educate kids use of social media in a positive way and is the first proactive rather than reactive solution to cyber-bullying.
If you are struggling with cyber-bullying, or if you are worried about someone who is, don’t suffer in silence. It is always encouraged to speak out, even if it feels difficult to do so, as any form of bullying can be so detrimental to your health. There are resources are available on Bernardos, yourmentalhealth.ie, and reachout.com.
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