9 Ways to Help Better Cope with Bullying as a Therian

I know how hard it is when people don’t get you, especially when it’s something involuntary, such as being a therian. We live in a world where anyone who doesn’t fit the “norm” has to deal with people’s stares, comments, and sometimes worse. But I’ve learned a lot about dealing with this over time, and if I can help even one of you feel a little more steady on your feet, it’ll be worth it. So, let’s talk about nine ways you can shift your mindset and protect yourself when people come at you for being a Therian.

Own Your Identity with Confidence

The best way to shut down a bully is to show them you’re unshaken by their judgment. When you’re confident in yourself, people’s words lose their power. I know it’s easier said than done but practice standing firm in your therian identity. Wear it with pride, and eventually, you’ll believe in that strength even more. Some might even back off when people see that confidence because they know their words won’t faze you.

Set Mental Boundaries

Imagine building a wall around your mind, blocking out the comments that try to sneak in and tear you down. Setting mental boundaries means telling yourself, “Their opinion doesn’t define me.” Picture it, feel it, and remind yourself that their words don’t have the power to touch the real you. Trust me, it’s a mental exercise, but it becomes a shield with practice.

Find Strength in Your Theriotype

This one’s personal. If your theriotype is a solid or resilient animal, consider what they’d do in the wild. Like, I’m an Iriomote cat, so when things get tough, I imagine myself tapping into that fierce, independent spirit. Whatever your theriotype is, channel its strengths. Draw from its energy, instincts, or resilience to keep yourself grounded. You’re literally part animal—use that to your advantage.

See Bullying as Their Problem, Not Yours

This might be the biggest mindset change that’s helped me. People who bully usually do it because of their own issues or insecurities. If someone criticizes you for being different, it reveals more about them than it does about you. In reality, their words reflect them and not you.

Build a Support Network

Having people in your corner who get you is life-changing. Connect with other therians or supportive friends who respect your identity. When you have a network of people who see and support you for who you are, it’s easier to brush off the negativity. There’s strength in numbers, and being around people who share your experiences can help you feel less alone and more secure.

Practice Compassion for Yourself

Sometimes, you’ll feel hurt by people’s words, and that’s okay. Be gentle with yourself when you’re having a hard day. Remind yourself that it’s human to feel hurt, and taking time to heal is okay. Self-compassion is enormous because it allows you to accept your struggles without adding extra guilt or frustration. You’re not weak for feeling; you’re just real.

Learn to Disengage

Not everyone is worth your energy or your explanations. I’ve had to learn that some people don’t want to understand—they just want to judge. So, when someone’s just trying to pick a fight or make fun, it’s sometimes best to ignore them. It’s honestly freeing to realize you don’t have to engage. Walking away or staying silent can be your power move.

Embrace the Strength in Vulnerability

Let’s be real—being open about your therian identity takes guts, and it also makes you feel exposed sometimes. But that vulnerability can be one of your biggest strengths. Just the fact that you’re showing the world who you are means you’re brave. Embracing your true self, even when it’s hard, is a form of courage that bullies won’t ever understand.

Focus on Personal Growth

Going through hard stuff makes us stronger. Use your experiences as a way to grow, not as something that holds you back. Journaling about what you go through or talking to someone you trust can make you feel more in control of your story. It helps you turn pain into strength and maybe even wisdom that can help someone else one day.

I hope these tips give you some new tools to handle bullying because I know how tough it can be. If you’re dealing with hate for being a Therian, remember: you’re part of a community that’s proud to be unique. Keep standing firm, and know there are people out there who see you and support you.

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