Stay Safe Online: Tips and Resources for Self-Advocates
The internet is a great place to connect, learn, and share—but it can also be risky. This page offers documentaries and videos on cyberbullying, cyber attacks, and internet safety, designed especially for self-advocates and people with disabilities.
Cyberbullying
Learn how to recognize online bullying.
Hear stories from people with disabilities who have faced cyberbullying.
Get tips for safely reporting bullying and supporting others.
Cyber Attacks & Online Security
Understand threats like hacking, scams, and identity theft.
Learn how to create strong passwords and protect your personal information.
Know practical steps to stay safe online every day.
Everyday Internet Safety
Adjust privacy settings on social media and apps.
Protect your personal information online.
Build confidence and skills for safe online navigation.
Real Stories & Expert Advice
Watch experiences from self-advocates and people with disabilities.
Learn from experts about practical ways to stay safe.
These resources help self-advocates, people with disabilities, and the public enjoy the internet safely. Watch, learn, and share to make online communities safer for everyone!
Cyberbullying can deeply affect a person’s mental and emotional well-being. It can happen through social media, text messages, gaming platforms, or other online spaces, and it often follows people everywhere they go — even into their homes. Hurtful comments, spreading rumors, sharing private information, or repeated harassment can make someone feel embarrassed, scared, angry, or completely alone. Over time, this kind of treatment can seriously harm a person’s self-esteem and sense of safety.
For some victims of cyberbullying, the pain becomes so heavy that they begin to feel hopeless. They may start to believe the bullying will never stop or that no one cares. These thoughts can lead to feelings of deep sadness, anxiety, or thoughts about suicide or self-harm. It is important to say this clearly and strongly: if you are feeling this way, you are not weak, and you are not alone. These feelings are a sign that you need support, and help is available.
In Canada, if you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or self-harm, you can call or text 988, the Suicide Crisis Helpline. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you reach out to 988, you will connect with trained, compassionate people who want to listen and help you stay safe. You do not have to be in immediate danger to contact them. If you feel overwhelmed, scared, or unsure what to do next, that is reason enough to reach out. Calling or texting 988 is confidential, free, and judgment-free.
Cyberbullying often makes people feel isolated, as if they have to handle everything on their own. Bullies may try to make victims feel powerless or ashamed, but the truth is that what is happening is not your fault. No one deserves to be treated with cruelty or disrespect, online or offline. Talking to someone you trust can make a big difference. This could be a parent, guardian, teacher, school counselor, support worker, coach, or another trusted adult. Letting someone know what’s happening helps break the silence and opens the door to support.
People with disabilities are sometimes at even higher risk of being targeted by cyberbullying. Individuals with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities may face bullying not only because of their differences but also because others misunderstand or underestimate them. Online spaces can become places where hurtful comments, exclusion, or harassment are focused on someone’s disability, making them feel isolated or rejected. It is crucial to remember that having a disability does not make someone any less valuable or deserving of respect. Support is available, and reaching out for help is a brave and important step.
There are also practical steps that can help when dealing with cyberbullying. Saving messages, screenshots, or posts can be important, especially if the behavior needs to be reported. Blocking or muting the person who is bullying you can reduce contact and give you some space to breathe. Most social media and online platforms have reporting tools — using them is not “telling on someone,” it is protecting yourself. Schools and organizations also have responsibilities to help keep people safe, and trusted adults can help guide you through these steps.
It’s also important to take care of your mental health during this time. Cyberbullying can make it hard to sleep, focus, or enjoy things you once liked. Small steps — like taking breaks from social media, spending time with supportive friends or family, listening to calming music, or doing activities you enjoy — can help reduce stress. These steps do not solve everything, but they can help you feel more grounded while you get support.
If you are ever feeling like the pain is too much or that you might hurt yourself, please remember this: your life matters. The feelings you’re experiencing right now do not define your future. Many people who have felt overwhelmed by bullying have gone on to find support, healing, and strength they didn’t know they had. Reaching out for help is a brave and important step.
Again, in Canada, you can call or text 988 at any time. You are not bothering anyone by reaching out. The people who answer want to help you through this moment. You deserve care, understanding, and safety. No matter how alone you feel, you are never alone, and there are people ready to stand with you and help you through.