According to the Department of Health and Children, each of the country's eight health boards provides services for people with drug and alcohol addiction problems, including teenagers.

There is also a range of private and charity-run projects dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues.

The Eastern Regional Health Authority runs a free helpline for people with drug and HIV-related problems: 1800-459459.

Alcoholic Anonymous: 01-4538998; 053-24094 (Wexford); AA after hours: 01-6795967; 053-33359.

Al Anon Al Ateen: 01-873 2699; 021-4311899 (Cork).

Narcotics Anonymous: 086- 8629308; 021-4278411 (Cork).

Poisons Information Service: 01-837 9964.

Drugs advisory and treatment centre: 01-677 1122.

Aware (depression support group): 01-676 6166.

Samaritans: 01-8727700; 1850-609090.

Parentline: 01-8733500.