Digital dating violence and coercion, particularly among young adults in casual relationships, is on the rise but may be hard for GPs to detect, new guidance says.

Online or ‘technology-facilitated’ abuse is a growing public health problem, often presenting as mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety and risk-taking behaviours. 

However, some patients may have physical symptoms like chronic headaches, according to the fifth edition of the RACGP’s domestic violence White Book. 

Released today, the updated guide recommends that GPs inquire about the possibility of online violence from partners, which is estimated to affect one in four young women, as well as older women.