How do respond to a bully when I know that the bully himself is struggling?

Tell him that what he is doing isn't okay, but also offer your support whenever you can because he will often feel alone.

99 percent of the time the person bullying is dealing with things on their own. Bullies crave a reaction - the best response is no response.

Wow, you certainly have good observation skills and compassion since you're here asking this question. :) Good on you! As for this situation, you can be empathetic to the bully, but you should tell him that bullying you won't help him with his issues at all. Tell him that although you understand that he is bullying you because of his problems, he also caused you harm, and you are struggling because of that. But be careful about being empathetic to the point where you're just pitying the bully. Pitying may hurt the bully's pride, which may cause negative impacts to you.

understand that obviously what they are doing is no excuse for what they have gone through but don't retaliate and remain aware of the fact that they are going through a difficulty even though they are putting you through one too.

Not caring about the bully will kill him inside and make you on the top of him/her. This is the best way

Never embarass him. Be patient and honest and reliable, saying that i have compassion/pity for him and if i can trying to get him on the path of self acceptance. But i protect myself because i cant save everybody

A main cause for a person bullying is because they are having problems of there on. When determining how to respond to it you have to know that the bullying has to stop. And then talk to the bully try to help them come to terms with there problems. If there problems are really severe and you are not capable of handing the momentum of the situation tell about 7cups or provide him with some hotline numbers is what I would do if I were in this situation.

sometimes its best to just ignore the bully. if you are concerned with hurting his feelings even tho he is hurting yours in the process then its best to ignore him.

Make sure they know that you're not taking this to heart and you are there for them. It is important for the bully to know that you are able to see through the shield they're putting up and you want to help them.

Don't take his offences personally. Stay neutral in your feelings - don't show feelings of hurt or anger. Don't try to fight back in public. Try to talk to him privately and just ask him how he's doing. Tell him what you think and ask him if he wants help or just someone to talk to. Show your support. LISTEN. We all have our struggles. You are a very kind and amazing person :)