A nationwide survey by Headspace, the National Youth Mental Health Foundation, found 53% of 12 to 25 year olds had experienced bullying in a digital space.
The most at risk were people of school age and young women aged 15 to 17.
According to Nick Duigan, Senior Clinical Advisor at Headspace National, "Just one exposure, for example let’s say one hurtful comment, or really impactful rumour, or an image that’s shared online. That might only be once but that can be shared, distributed and seen by an infinite number of people almost instantly."
In addition, face-to-face bullying often carries into the online realm.
Mr Duigan says it shouldn't be part of modern life and offers some advice.
He says schools can play an important role beyond responding to cyber bullying.
Ann Gallagher is on the Headspace Family and Friend Reference Group.
Her daughter was cyber-bullied when was she was 15 and her mental health started to suffer.
Social support, such as that of Ms Gallagher to her daughter, is particularly important in this situation.
Research by Dr Larisa McCloughlin, a postdoctoral fellow at the Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience Thompson Institute at the University of the Sunshine Coast shows that social connectedness is closely linked to mental well-being.
If you or a young person you know is experiencing cyber bullying you can visit the eSafety commissioner website for more information.
You can also call the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 for support at any time.
