Cherie White: Turning Bullying Trauma into Advocacy on Stop Child Abuse Now
You know bullies expect you to take you know to put up with things that they would never put up with if it were happening to them. I think it's really hurtful for me when I see adult bullies.
Ever wondered how someone can transform the trauma of bullying into a mission to help others? In this episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now', Cherie White from Covington, Tennessee, takes the stage. Cherie, an anti-bullying advocate and author of three books, shares her personal story of being bullied and gaslighted. Starting in the 6th grade, she endured relentless physical beatings, name-calling, and emotional abuse, a phenomenon known as 'poly-victimization'.
This torment took a heavy toll on her, turning her from an honor roll student into a girl struggling with anger and bitterness. By the age of fourteen, Cherie felt so powerless that she attempted suicide and even began to bully others in a desperate bid to reclaim some control over her life. Today, Cherie channels her experiences into advocacy work, using her story to support others facing similar struggles.
She offers practical advice on fighting back against bullies, such as banding together with other victims and seeking help from organizations like Power of Zero. The episode also explores the chilling parallels between bullying and childhood sexual abuse, emphasizing the importance of breaking the silence around these issues. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that not only addresses the impact of bullying on mental health but also offers actionable steps to create a safer world for everyone.