‘There’s always help’: Lisa Wilkinson recounts teen bullying experience

The Project host Lisa Wilkinson has recounted her terrifying experience of being bullied as a teen and called on others to ‘speak, even if your voice shakes’ as the country came together for Do It For Dolly Day.

The 60-year-old took to social media this week to share a photo of her younger self and tell followers about how bullying impacted her life. While a teenage Lisa looked like any ordinary young girl, the TV presenter said behind the smile she was hurting.

“I have such mixed emotions when I look at this photo of me at the age of 15 because I’m immediately reminded of the pain behind that very tentative young girl’s smile,” she wrote on the Instagram post.

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“At school I was being badly bullied and every day I feared what that school bell would bring. Somehow, I managed to survive the schoolyard bullies but I’m painfully aware that an every-increasing number of kids today don’t.”

Lisa went on to speak of Amy “Dolly” Everett, the young Australian girl who sadly took her own life after becoming the victim of cyberbullying. Dolly tragically died of suicide in 2018, and since then her parents have made it their mission to raise awareness of bullying and the devastating impacts it can have on children.

They launched the #DoItForDolly campaign, and later Dolly’s Dream Foundation, with the quote “stand up, speak even if your voice shakes” reaching headlines around the globe. Now, each year on May 8 people are encouraged to wear blue in memory of Dolly and undertake a small act of kindness in her honour.

“On this #DoItForDolly Day, please remember, if you or someone you know is struggling, there is always help available,” Lisa wrote on her Instagram post. “And please, speak, even if your voice shakes.”

Followers have since rallied behind Lisa and showed their support of Do It For Dolly Day in hopes that it will make some difference to those sadly experiencing bullying.

“Such a beautiful young lady that has grown into a beautiful woman and mother,” @garrymunn wrote on the post. “That you were bullied surely is a wake up call that this occurred prior to social media! I’m so sorry that you were bullied but so very happy that you survived to share your experiences which will in turn save lives of young vulnerable girls and boys.”

“Thank you for sharing what must be painful memories. Hopefully those that know someone or are a victim can reach out for help,” @pattyblemith said.

While @tilleysimone added: “You are one of the most inspirational female leaders in Australia. We all appreciate how you keep it real and share stories so that others can grow and prosper.”

If you are concerned about suicide in your family, friends or workplace, contact Mensline Australia on 1300 789 978, Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277 or Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 for confidential support, advice and referral that will help you explore your options.