Australia loses teen to cyberbullying
Chanelle Rae was a 14-year-old cheerleader at her high school in Australia. According to her mother, she was a bright and happy teenager who had a few minor problems with kids at school, but nothing that changed her mood.
Until a Friday night in July, 2009. She told her mother that she “wanted to die” after receiving a hurtful message online. They talked about it for an hour or so, and her Mom thought things were better. Later that night, Chanelle committed suicide.
Chanelle Rae (MySpace)
“When you’re 14-years-old, if you don’t think you have any friends . . . .maybe that’s not worth living and obviously it wasn’t for her,” Karen Rae commented.
Australia’s Education Ministry is encouraging young people to talk about their problems especially when they’re in a crisis. ‘ . . .no problem is unsurmountable” said Education Minister Bronwyn Pike.
Do you have someone to turn to when you’re down or feeling depressed? A friend or relative? If you don’t, you can always call a help or hotline such as:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
In Australia: Lifeline at 13 11 14
In England: www.cybermentors.org.uk or call at: 0208 771 3377
For more about cyberbullying and bullicide, see: http://askthejudge.info/fatal-abuse-of-the-internet-by-the-parents/165/
