Bullying, how it happens and the consequences

When I was bullied out of a job I loved 12 years ago, it was devastating.  The first time you are deliberately targeted it is so hard to understand that you don't get it for a while - and by then you are already so undermined that your plummeting confidence and self-esteem feed into the vicious cycle and you let it continue.  By the time you realise what is happening, fighting back doesn't help - if just makes the bully step up the abuse and be more determined than ever to get rid of you.  Finding the late Tim Field's Bullying Online website was the best thing that ever happened to me - there I found validation, understanding and kindred spirits, some of whom I am still in contact with and a few of whom remain firm, close friends.  I am now empowered to recognise the signs - both for myself and others - and offer help, support, advice and most importantly, a listening ear and empathy, to others going through it.  If only I could say it is becoming less common, but it isn't.  And the law barely helps.....