Finland's Mannerheimin Lastensuojeluliitto (MLL) is launching a nine-session peer support group for bullied youth in Mikkeli, targeting 12 to 21-year-olds, as part of its nearly decade-long effort to address the aftermath of bullying. The Selviytyjät group, starting on February 2nd, focuses on aftercare for those who have experienced bullying, even after the incidents have stopped. According to Katariina Kuronen, the coordinator of the 'Selviydytään kiusaamisesta' activity, this initiative is crucial because the consequences of bullying often persist long after the bullying itself ends. 'This is aftercare activity,' Kuronen said. 'Even though the bullying experience is in the past, the effects might still be visible. The peer group is meant for handling those consequences, for peer support, and for improving self-esteem.'
Addressing the Long-Term Effects of Bullying
Kuronen emphasized that the core message of the group is that no young person is alone with their experiences. 'There are others who have experienced the same thing,' she said. 'What's important is sharing experiences with others and also focusing on and strengthening protective factors. For example, identifying one's own strengths and understanding how bullying has affected oneself and one's behavior.' She stressed that a key message for youth is that bullying is never the victim's fault. 'Bullying leaves marks and causes consequences, but there is also help available for them,' Kuronen highlighted. This approach recognizes that bullying can lead to ongoing emotional and psychological challenges, such as low self-esteem or anxiety, which require targeted support beyond immediate intervention.
Inside the Selviytyjät Group Sessions
The group will meet nine times from February 2nd to March 30th in MLL's premises in central Mikkeli. Sessions will cover topics like sharing personal experiences, identifying and processing emotions, and building a positive self-image. Each meeting is designed to foster a safe environment where participants can connect with peers who have similar backgrounds. Kuronen explained that the activities aim to help youth develop coping mechanisms and reinforce their resilience. Alongside Kuronen, the group includes a volunteer adult, often a social work student, ensuring professional guidance. The goal is to have 3 to 6 young participants, allowing for intimate and effective interaction. This structured yet flexible format has been refined over years of MLL's work with similar groups across Finland.
MLL's Decade of Peer Support Initiatives
MLL has been running comparable peer groups in various parts of Finland for almost 10 years, demonstrating a sustained commitment to supporting bullied youth. In Mikkeli alone, one Selviytyjät group convened in 2023, and Kuronen has also led online versions of these groups, which have attracted participants from all over Finland. The expansion to in-person sessions in Mikkeli reflects a tailored approach to local needs while leveraging MLL's extensive experience. Additionally, MLL offers individual coaching for bullied youth, providing multiple avenues for support. This history underscores the organization's role in filling gaps in post-bullying care, often in collaboration with schools and other community entities.
How Youth Can Access Support
Young people can self-register for the groups, or information can be relayed through school counselors, health nurses, teachers, or parents. Kuronen noted that MLL works closely with schools to raise awareness. 'We do a lot of collaboration with schools,' she said. 'I also create content on TikTok for youth, so that way information spreads as well.' This multi-channel outreach ensures that the message reaches those who might not seek help through traditional means. The availability of online groups further broadens access, allowing youth from remote areas to participate. Kuronen's use of social media like TikTok highlights a modern strategy to engage younger audiences, making support systems more visible and approachable.
The Broader Implications for Youth Mental Health
Kuronen's insights point to a growing recognition in Finland that bullying requires ongoing attention, not just immediate cessation. By focusing on aftercare, the Selviytyjät group addresses a critical gap in support services, where youth may struggle silently with residual effects. The emphasis on peer support aligns with evidence-based practices that show shared experiences can enhance healing and reduce isolation. While MLL's initiatives are non-governmental, they complement broader Finnish efforts in child welfare and mental health, potentially informing policy discussions on holistic anti-bullying strategies. The group's activities, such as building self-image and emotional processing, serve as practical tools for long-term well-being, which could reduce future mental health burdens.