A new research initiative between the University of Limerick (UL) and SpunOut.ie will assess the impact of break-ups and how they affect young people in particular.
According to UL psychologist Dr Aidan McKiernan, the project aims to gather and present information about ways of understanding and managing the upset following a break-up.
Mr McKiernan said his inspiration to undertake the project was in part based on his own 'break-up' experiences and their impact on him personally.
"This partnership with SpunOut.ie is all about listening to young people and hearing their stories and experiences about break ups. This way we can better understand the issues and work with young people in
dealing with experiences that may otherwise have a significant impact
on them, perhaps for the rest of their lives" he said.
"We already know that break-ups can be an associated risk factor for suicide, something that surely needs urgent attention," he added.
The 'Project Break-Up' discussion forum is moderated by trained volunteers and gives young people an opportunity to support each other in an anonymous setting.