Monica Lewinsky’s New Anti-Bullying Ad Reminds Us Not To Be Mean To Ourselves

Social activist Monica Lewinsky has launched a thought-provoking crusade coinciding with Bullying Prevention Month and with the help of creative agency Mischief. This drive aims to shift our perspective toward self-bullying, a silent but often profound issue many individuals grapple with.

At its core, Stand Up to Yourself seeks to reframe how we communicate with ourselves and manage our inner critics. A survey done by the campaign cites that 80% of young people criticize themselves for how they look, and 74% of adults find that the biggest obstacle standing in the way of their own success is themselves.

A video made to promote this captures unscripted moments where participants read aloud negative, hurtful, and cruel statements directed at themselves. What unfolds in these raw moments is a potent expression of shock and deep-seated emotions.

The video underscores a vital message: self-bullying is a form of bullying in itself. It compels viewers to confront the harshness of their own self-dialogue and inspires them to stand up against it.

For those seeking support and tools to combat negative self-talk, the drive directs them to a dedicated website providing valuable resources, including access to help hotlines in the US, UK, and Australia. There is also a list of guidelines we can read through that will help us recognize our inner turmoil and find peace in ourselves by using soothing self-talk, looking at our emotions from a logical standpoint, and practicing gratitude. 

The cause aims to spark a meaningful conversation on self-bullying and its consequences by debuting on the Today Show and promoting it on social media platforms.

Lewinsky’s effort is more than a call to action; it’s a concerted effort to support organizations dedicated to bullying prevention and childhood resilience. By raising awareness about negative self-talk, the campaign aspires to provide much-needed support for those battling with this silent adversary.

[via The Drum and Muse by Clio, screenshot via Stand Up to Yourself]