Teens in the Real World
  Food Allergies in the Real World  

Solving the Bully Problem

Dear FAANTeen,

Can’t wait until next month for a new column? Check out the archives to tide you over.

I have milk allergies and a lot of kids were teasing me about it. How can I fix this problem without violence?

In any situation that involves bullies, you have three options: Ignore them, fight them, or talk with them. Although it would be prudent to ask an adult for help, sometimes bringing an adult into the situation will only make the issue worse. Fighting is always the exact wrong idea, so the best solution is to talk to the bully on your own or with the help of your friends.

I also encourage other forms of non-violent protest. For instance, if the kids are teasing you, sit next to them every day and don’t move no matter what they do; they will eventually leave you alone. I promise. However, this response is just my advice; you must figure out the best solution for yourself.

Remember, your parents and school will be there for you if you want to let them know you need their help. It’s very hard to learn at school when you’re worried about a bully, so this is a problem the school will want to fix if you and your parents bring it to the attention of the administration.

Good luck!

Ryan is a senior at Boston College High School, and has been a member of TAG for over a year. He is anaphylactic to soy and peanut, and allergic to peas. He attended the FAAN Teen Summit in November 2006.

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The information above is not designed to take the place of a doctor’s instructions. Patients are urged to contact a doctor for specific information regarding guidelines for care.

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