Bullying is distressing in any form but cyberbullying has become all too common in recent years.

As devices such as smartphones and tablets have grown in use, children are experiencing bullying through social networking sites, messaging apps, gaming sites and chat rooms.

The bullying carries on after school and into a child's home, and it can feel relentless for the young people who are suffering.

So how can parents tell if their children are being harassed online? And what can they do about it?

Internet Matters, a group that helps families stay safe online, has advice on spotting signs of cyberbullying and the steps you can take to help your child.

We have summarised their advice below. You can also get more information here.

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How can I tell if my child is being cyberbullied?

"Your child might be reluctant to tell you that they are worried about cyberbullying so it’s important to look out for the signs," says Internet Matters.

Alarm bells should ring if:

1. Your child has stopped using their electronic devices suddenly or unexpectedly

2. They seem nervous or jumpy when using their devices, or have become obsessive about being constantly online

3. There are any changes in behaviour such as becoming sad, withdrawn, angry, or lashing out

4. There is a reluctance to go to school or take part in usual social activities

5. There are unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach upsets

6. They avoid discussions about what they’re doing online or who they’re talking to

What can I do if my child is being cyberbullied?

There are a number of things you can do. Internet Matters suggests you can take the following steps:

  • Talk about it - Find the right time to approach your child if you think they're being bullied
  • Show your support - Be calm and considered and tell them how you'll help them get through it
  • DON'T stop them going online - Taking away their devices or restricting usage might make things worse and make your child feel more isolated
  • Help them to deal with it - If it's among school friends, advise them to tell the person how it made them feel and ask to take any comments or pictures down
  • Don't retaliate - Advise your child not to respond to abusive messages and leave conversations if they feel uncomfortable
  • Block the bullies - If the messages are repeated, block and report the sender to the social network or gaming platform
  • Keep the evidence - Take screenshots in case you need them later as proof of what's happened
  • Don't deal with it alone - Talk to friends for support and if necessary your child's school who will have an anti-bullying policy
  • Know when to take it further - In extreme cases and if you feel your child is in danger then consider informing the police
  • Don't stop when the bullying stops - Keep talking to your child and consider whether counselling could help them deal with the consequences