A campaign to encourage young people who experience difficulties in their lives to talk about their problems, was launched yesterday as part of an initiative to reduce the level of suicide in Ireland.
Research shows that young people who experience emotional turmoil are more likely to feel suicidal if they they feel there is no one to turn to, or no apparent source of support.
The "tough times" campaign encourages young people to realise that it is normal to experience difficult times and that there are a range of help and support options available.
It also helps direct young people who face dilemmas - such as coming out, unexpected pregnancies, low self-esteem or depression - towards sources of help and support.
Ireland has the fifth highest suicide rate in Europe for the 15-25 year age group, while death by suicide is now the main cause of death among young Irish men.
The awareness campaign is being co-ordinated by the youth-led charity Spunout.ie
The campaign was commissioned and joint funded by Console and Turning The Tide of Suicide (3Ts).
Advertising costs on TV are being paid for by the National Office for Suicide Prevention.
A TV advertisement will feature the story of 22-year-old student Ian Howley who attempted suicide three times in his early to mid-teens.
Yesterday, he said he got involved in the campaign to help others learn from his experience.
"Everyone experiences tough times at some stage in their lives. Many young people continue to face a range of health and social pressures leaving them struggling to cope with life's challenges, but I don't want any other person to have to feel what I felt and to go through what I have - there is someone you can talk to so no-one need suffer alone," he said.
Andrew Garvey, chairman of the suicide bereavement group Console, said young people need to know that talking about an issue affecting them can make a big difference."There is no need to feel that you're alone. Talk to family, friends, teachers, youth workers, health professionals or support organisations..."
For further information, visit www.spunout.ie. Helplines for people feeling depressed or suicidal include the Samaritans (1850 609090, or jo@samaritans.org) or Console (1800 201890).
