Talking to Your Parents About Cyberbullying: A Teen’s Guide to Getting Help

Cyberbullying is no joke. When you’re getting slammed with cruel messages on Snapchat, fake rumors on TikTok, or even threats that leak your personal info, it can feel like you’re drowning. It’s scary, and it’s easy to want to hide it because you’re embarrassed or think no one will get it. But keeping it to yourself only makes it worse. Talking to your parents or a trusted adult can be the first step to stopping it. Inspired by real stories like Lauryn Licari’s in Unknown Number: The High School Catfish (Netflix, 2025) and advice from experts like Dr. Sameer Hinduja, here’s how to open up about cyberbullying and get the support you deserve.

First, understand that cyberbullying isn’t your fault. Those hateful DMs or posts are about the bully’s issues, not you. Dr. Justin Patchin from the Cyberbullying Research Center says 93% of victims feel hopeless or sad, and bottling it up can make you feel even more trapped. Lauryn Licari dealt with two years of harassment—texts, fake accounts, even her address being shared—because she didn’t know how to fully open up at first. Telling an adult isn’t weak; it’s taking charge of your life.

Pick someone you trust to talk to, like a parent, counselor, or teacher who listens without judging. If you’re worried your parents might overreact, like grounding you from your phone, try a school counselor or a coach you vibe with. Ross Ellis from STOMP Out Bullying says to choose someone who’s shown they care about you, so you feel safe being real with them.

Before you talk, gather proof. Save screenshots of every mean message, comment, or post. If it’s on Snapchat, screen-record before it disappears. In Lauryn’s case, FBI investigators used phone records to catch her stalker, but your evidence can help adults see what’s going on. Keep it all in a folder on your phone or laptop so you’re ready to show it.

Plan what you’ll say to keep it clear. Something simple like, “I’m getting really hurtful messages online, and it’s messing with me. Can we figure out what to do?” works. Be honest about how it’s hitting you—maybe you’re anxious, not sleeping, or just feel low. Adults need to hear that to understand it’s serious. If talking face-to-face feels hard, UNICEF experts suggest starting with a text or note, like, “Can we talk about something tough? It’s about stuff online.”

Find a good moment to bring it up, like when your parent’s not stressed or busy. Maybe after school or during a quiet evening at home. Avoid crowded places where you might feel exposed. If you’re nervous, write it down first to stay focused. Dr. Stephanie Fredrick from the Alberti Center says a calm setting helps you feel heard.

Be ready for different reactions. Some adults might want to fix it right away; others might not get how bad it is. If they say, “Just ignore it,” explain why that’s tough: “It’s not one message—it’s constant, and it’s stressing me out.” Show your screenshots to back it up. If they want to limit your phone, suggest working together to block the bully or report it instead. It’s about finding solutions, not fighting.

Tell them what you need help with. Maybe it’s reporting to your school, contacting the app (like Instagram’s report button), or just having someone check in with you. You could say, “Can we report this to TikTok together?” or “I think I need to talk to a counselor.” Cyberbullying can really mess with your head—studies show victims are twice as likely to have suicidal thoughts—so don’t be afraid to ask for professional help if you’re struggling.

Keep the conversation going. Update the adult on what’s happening, like if the bullying stops or gets worse. If the first person doesn’t help enough, try another, like a school resource officer. Lauryn’s case took years because early reports didn’t get enough attention, but sticking with it led to justice. Check in with yourself, too—cyberbullying can cause anxiety or low self-esteem, and talking regularly helps you feel less alone.

Cyberbullying feels overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it by yourself. Telling a parent or adult is a brave move to take back control. Save your evidence, be clear about how you feel, and ask for what you need. Sites like cyberbullying.org have tips on reporting, and STOMP Out Bullying’s HelpChat Line is there 24/7 if you need someone to talk to. You’re stronger than the bullies—reach out and prove it.