Beaumont Launches Michigan's First Hospital-Based Anti-Bullying Program

Children's Hospital introduced No Bullying Live Empowered (NoBLE) Friday morning – the in Michigan.

"NoBle's purpose is to provide counseling and support to youth and their families affected by bullying," said Dr. Marlene Seltzer, medical director of NoBLE. "We also plan to engage in research and development."

Seltzer said the program exists for victims of aggressive behavior, perpetrators and the witnesses of bullying, all of which are at risk for physical and mental symptoms, such as headaches, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicide, she said.

"Although most bullying starts in the schoolyard, it often ends up in the health care arena," Seltzer said. "Whether a child has headaches or stomachaches, low self-esteem or anxiety, there is a good chance that child will intersect with the health care system, which is why it is so important that health care be part of the solution."

A 24/7 bullying crisis hotline also has been started by the nonprofit family agency Common Ground. 

The Friday announcements coincided with Stand 4Change Day, in which students around the world – including those at – are promising to stand up to bullying and not be bystanders.

A Michigan Department of Education report indicates there were more than 34,000 bullying incidents in the state during the 2010-11 school year, including 8,211 in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Seltzer believes the real numbers are higher because bullying is underreported due to fear and social stigma.

NoBLE will offer a network of clinical services to children, adolescents, young adults, parents, caregivers and educators who have been exposed to bullying.

Contact 248-898-3321 or visit beaumont.edu/urnoble to learn more about how this program can help.

The Common Ground hotline for bullying victims, witnesses and families is 855-URNOBLE.