What should I do about rumors or cyberbullying?

Something about you is spreading online, and it feels like the whole school saw it before you did.

• Online conflict has an audience, which raises the pressure to retaliate.
• Anonymity makes people crueler than they'd be face to face.
• Reacting publicly usually feeds the attention the situation runs on.

Before you decide anything, take four slow breaths — in for 4, out for 6. You think more clearly on the other side of a calm breath than in the middle of a fast feeling.

1. 1Screenshot and document before you respond. Evidence protects you.
2. 2Don't retaliate publicly. Block, report, and limit who can see your accounts.
3. 3Tell an adult — a caregiver, counselor, or school administrator. Most schools have policies and can act.

Document what's happening and show it to one trusted adult today.

Play it forward. If you take this step, what happens tomorrow? Next week? What does it protect — your peace, your grades, your relationships, your future? Leaders think one move ahead.

• One-Minute BreathingSlow your body down in 60 seconds with a longer exhale.
• Positive AffirmationsWords that steady you before you step out.
• Talk to a Trusted AdultA script for starting the conversation you've been avoiding.
• Get HelpCrisis resources and a personal safety plan.