Expert: 70% face mental health issues before age 25

Mental health difficulties start to emerge before the age of 25 in 70% of adults suffering from the condition, a leading psychiatrist told the Oireachtas committee on the future of healthcare.

The medical director of St Patrick’s Mental Health Services, Prof Jim Lucey, said early intervention is key to preventing mental health problems from developing.

Prof Lucy said health service structures should stop dividing the mind and body.