Cyberbullying is harassment that takes place over digital devices, social media platforms, and gaming experiences. According to the Pew Research Center, 59% of U.S teens have been bullied or harassed online. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can take place 24 hours a day and includes actions such as making threats, spreading rumors, sharing personal information to humiliate, excluding someone on purpose, and more.
In a way to curb cyber bullying, Fidelis Care has recently stepped forward to educate adults and youth across New York about the risks of cyberbullying and how it impacts overall health.
“The pervasiveness of technology has created new avenues for bullying, making it more difficult for our youth to escape its harmful effects,” said Fidelis Care Chief Medical Officer Vincent Marchello, MD.
Cyberbullying can lead to social and emotional distress, behavioral problems, and mental health issues. Additionally, youth who are bullied are at increased risk for substance misuse, academic problems, and violence to others.
To further spread awareness, Fidelis Care is encouraging youth in New York to take action toward promoting prevention with their peers and community by participating in the Centene Institute Youth Impact Award for Cyberbullying Prevention.
As part of the Centene family, Fidelis Care invites youth ages 14-19 to watch a short video and read a fact sheet on cyberbullying before submitting their own original visual art entry that conveys cyberbullying awareness and prevention. The contest is open to eligible youth nationwide. All submissions are eligible to account for up to 10 hours of community service. The contest is now open and runs until May 20, 2022.
