Over-protecting children and solving their problems for them could be contributing to a higher rate of suicide among young people, an Irish GP has warned.

Overprotecting children and problem-solving for them could contribute to higher suicide risks in later life, an Irish GP and author has warned.

Concern that holding suicide inquests in private could increase stigma about such deaths was raised by Minister of State for Mental Health, Kathleen Lynch.

The simple, chilling fact that 10 people take their own life in Ireland every week means that there is hardly a family in the country that does not have first-hand experience of this modern tragedy, one that often has a catastrophic impact on a family’s — especially on partners or parents — emotional wellbeing, contentment, and security.

Health Minister Mary Harney today revealed her own devastation after losing a friend to suicide.