A new programme from the Mental Health Association of Ireland - "Mental Health Matters" - is targeted at 14- to 18-year-olds, an increasing number of whom suffer from depression and take their own lives. Researched and written by teacher Tom Jones and mental health professional Niall McCarthy, the programme was initiated in response to concerns expressed by young people about a wide range of mental health issues.

The aim is to trigger discussions on issues close to teenage hearts such as drinking alcohol, substance abuse, bullying, relationships and family conflict (tel: (01) 284 1166).