According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, last year, about one in four students reported being bullied during the school year.

That’s one in four students who are at increased risk for poor school adjustment, sleep difficulties, anxiety and depression.

And bullies themselves? They are at increased risk for academic problems, substance use and violent behavior later in adolescence and adulthood.

And bullying doesn’t just stop with face-to-face teasing or name-calling. Some students are harassed online through social media sites or text messaging.

But you don’t need statistics to tell you that bullying is wrong and can severely impact a child’s life.

October is National Bullying Prevention Month and the nationwide campaign, started by PACER, is celebrating its 10th year of raising awareness and educating the public.

Several schools in Lawrence County have recently had anti-bullying assemblies and visits from Batman from Heroes 4 Higher to teach children about overcoming tough situations.

An event for the public, the Bully Slam will be at 6 p.m. Sunday at the Chesapeake Community Center. Organized by Big Time Pro Wrestling, the matches will feature several wrestlers who have overcome disabilities. The goal of the event is to encourage youth as well as adults to stand up to bullying and share their feelings.

Children should know that bullying is not a rite of passage and it doesn’t make them “tougher.” It is a serious issue that needs to be dealt with. Thankfully, school assemblies and keeping the conversation going in a public manner will go along way in putting a stop to bullying.