The case of ‘intense bullying’ that landed 11-year-old Maryam Al Shehhi in an ICU has turned the spotlight on how insults and verbal abuse could seriously affect a child. Doctors and specialists said the physical and psychological impact of such incidents could linger for a long time.
Bullying could weaken children’s immune systems or lead to heart issues, in addition to other long-term impact on mental health, experts warned.
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The Emirati girl Al Shehhi — who faced relentless bullying during and after taking part in a reality show — lost 5kg in just seven days and her blood sugar levels spiked due to type 1 diabetes. She collapsed and spent a week in the hospital.
Bullying trigger’s a child’s biological stress response, said Dr Adnan Ahmadiazad, a psychiatrist at Thumbay University Hospital.
“When this response is prolonged, it can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation. Chronic stress is also linked to cardiovascular issues due to increased blood pressure and heart rate,” said Dr Ahmadiazad.
‘A child may feel worthless’
On top of physical health impact, bullying could have lasting psychological effects, too.
Children who have been bullied are also prone to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Anxiety and depression often lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including eating disorders, said Dr Ahmadiazad.
“Some children may restrict food intake or binge-eat to manage their emotions, contributing to eating disorders,” he said.
These issues manifest in ways that deeply affect both social and academic performance.
“A child bullied for their appearance may feel worthless and avoid social situations,” the doctor added. “They might also experience physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or insomnia due to stress.”
Warning signs for parents
Parents need to be vigilant in recognising signs that their child may be struggling with the effects of bullying.
“Look for changes in behaviour, such as withdrawing from friends or activities they used to enjoy,” said Dr Ahmadiazad. “Increased anxiety, frequent complaints of headaches or stomach aches, and changes in eating or sleeping patterns can be red flags.”
Early intervention is crucial. “If parents notice signs of self-harm or expressions of worthlessness, professional help should be sought immediately,” the doctor added.
How to help kids
Preventive action is essential in combating the long-term effects of bullying. Dana Berri, a psychologist at Aman Lil Afia Clinic Dubai, recommended that schools implement strong anti-bullying policies and conduct workshops to teach empathy and conflict resolution.
“Regular workshops, like role-playing scenarios, can help children develop social skills and empathy for their peers,” Berri said.
Parents have to be involved in their children’s academic and social lives, too.
“When parents show interest and support in their child’s education, it significantly boosts their self-confidence,” said Berri. “Simple actions like attending school events, engaging in discussions about their day, and helping with homework can improve a child’s emotional well-being and academic performance.”
For children who are recovering from bullying incidents, some coping strategies can help. These include deep breathing exercises, sports, and creative outlets like writing or sketching, said Dr Ahmadiazad. Living a healthy lifestyle with balanced meals and adequate sleep is also crucial.