(I'm from U.S)
I was bullied from 6th grade to 12th grade. I didn't experience physical bullying only mental bullying. Due to anxiety & depression (Diagnosed by psychiatrist), it was reinforced/made worse due to my assumptions. I'd always assume people were thinking a certain way about me, which did make me upset. Throughout school we had all forms of anti-bullying mediums shown/broadcasted throughout the school (On TV's, as well as literature). The only time there was physical bullying was when kids were doing things they weren't supposed to be doing (Going to class, not provoking others, etc). Over the years of being bullied, I've found multiple ways to cope and I "grew thicker skin." One way, was to skip cafeteria and head to the library and read/browse the web. I always thought it was kind of insensitive to tell a victim of bullying to grow thicker skin. This doesn't apply to everyone, but I feel if I wasn't bullied/put through mental torment during school, I would be a lot weaker mentally. It shaped me into becoming a stronger person. Best way to combat verbal bullying is to not show any emotion towards the bully and they won't gain any satisfaction. Plus, it's best not to value what they say if they're just insulting you to insult you. I've felt insulted while in my early teens for constructive criticism, which I should've used to improve myself, instead of ignoring and taking it as an insult.