Bullying impacts everyone—it can leave lasting scars on victims and even those who witness it. Children, teens, and adults can be subjected to relentless psychological and physical bullying, making their lives unbearable. Cassidy Trevan from Melbourne, Australia, experienced this first-hand.

For a long time, Cassidy faced psychological and occasional physical bullying. She endured name-calling, attacks at school and online, and even vandalism of her home. The situation became so severe she couldn’t attend school anymore. Despite efforts to address the issue, the bullying persisted.

After a term away, Cassidy attempted to reintegrate into school life, starting with two days a week. Her bullies seemingly apologized and invited her to a festival. Desperate for friends, she accepted. Tragically, the invitation was a trap. The girls took Cassidy to a house where two older boys raped her. Cassidy reported the crime, but the case was dropped due to insufficient evidence.

Despite changing schools and moving homes, Cassidy couldn’t escape the bullying. In December 2015, she took her own life. Posthumously, her mother found a letter Cassidy wrote, urging others to fight against bullying and warning them of its dangers.

Cassidy’s story underscores the critical need for collective action to combat bullying and ensure no one feels alone.