Eva Mendes speaks out in opposition to tormenting: The recent suicide of gay student Tyler Clementi, who studied in New Jersey, has caused a host of stars to get involved in an anti-bullying campaign. Tyler was reportedly picked on because of his sexuality, and openly-gay talk show host Ellen DeGeneres is among those to speak out.

Now celebrities such Eva and fellow star Jessica Alba have revealed they struggled at the hands of bullies when they were young, despite being two of Hollywood’s most successful leading ladies today.

Eva says bullies tried to make her miserable when she was at school, and it took her a long time to pluck up the courage to answer back. The beautiful actress thinks many young people need to learn to stand up for themselves, because only then will they be able to combat the nastiness.

"When I finally stood up to my bully, that's when things changed for me," she told People magazine.

Jessica has spoken about her difficult schooldays in the past, revealing she needed an escort to take her into class because she was so fearful.

“I was bullied so badly my dad used to have to walk me into school so I didn't get attacked," she said.

Glee actor Chris Colfer has also confided that he found high school tough, although the talented singer says being picked on made him stronger. Chris thinks constantly being teased helped him develop a quick sense of humour as he learnt to make smart comebacks.

“[I was] teased everyday from elementary school until high school... it really taught me to be quick on my feet. Some of my witty comebacks are legendary," he told People.