Cyberbullying and online abuse

If you or someone you love is being targeted online, please know this is not your fault, and there are people who can help.

What it is

Cyberbullying and online abuse involve repeated, deliberate harm carried out through digital platforms - this can include threats, humiliation, exclusion, impersonation, sharing private images without consent, or coordinated harassment. It can happen to adults and children alike, at work, on social media or in gaming spaces. Because it can follow a person everywhere on their phone, it often feels harder to escape than in-person bullying, and the impact on mental health can be serious.

Signs to notice

• Feeling anxious, dreading notifications, or checking your phone compulsively out of fear.
• Withdrawing from social media, friends or family.
• Sleep disturbance, low mood, or a drop in self-esteem linked to online experiences.
• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches with no clear cause.
• Secrecy about phone or online activity, especially in children and teens.
• Thoughts of self-harm or feeling like there is no way out.

What helps

• Do not engage with the abuser - responding often escalates the situation.
• Save evidence - screenshots, messages, dates - before blocking or reporting the person.
• Use the platform's reporting and blocking tools; most social media apps have dedicated abuse-reporting features.
• Tell someone you trust - a friend, family member, manager or counsellor - you do not have to handle this alone.
• Limit exposure by muting notifications or taking a short break from the platform while you get support.
• Review your privacy settings and consider who can see or contact you online.
• Remember the content and comments reflect the person posting them, not your worth.

When to reach out for help

Reach out for professional support if the abuse is affecting your sleep, work, relationships or sense of safety, if it involves threats of violence or the sharing of private images, or if you are having thoughts of self-harm. Workplace-related online harassment can also be reported through your HR department or EAP. A professional can assess the impact and help you build a safety and recovery plan.

Getting help in South Africa

Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors are available confidentially to support you through cyberbullying or online abuse. If the abuse involves threats, stalking or gender-based harassment, the GBV Command Centre (0800 428 428) can assist. For urgent safety concerns, contact SAPS on 10111. SADAG's Mental Health Line (011 234 4837) offers additional support for the emotional impact.

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If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.