More than 50% of girls stressed about Leaving Cert

A new study is highlighting the stresses and strains felt by young people going through the Leaving Cert process.

It comes as about 55,000 candidates await the results of this year's exams, due out on Wednesday.

The research from the ESRI shows that more than half of female Leaving Cert students are stressed out in sixth year, with four-in-ten losing sleep because of worry.

That compares with about a third of their male counterparts who say they are under constant strain, with two-in-ten losing sleep.

There is also speculation today that the level of points required for college places will increase this year.

First round CAO offers will be revealed in a week's time, with the surge in interest being put down to the tighter jobs market, the closing off of apprenticeship schemes and the embargo on public service recruitment