New research highlights methods of preventing suicide

A new report from the National Children’s Office has revealed new ways of reducing the suicide rate among young people in Ireland.

444 people committed suicide in 2003, the majority being men in the 15 - 24 year old age group.

Researcher Caroline Smyth said community and school-based initiatives and mental health promotions can help prevent suicide.

Ms Smyth said projects must focus not only on those at the highest risk of suicide, but on broad-based psychological characteristics including self-esteem and the ability to cope with stress and trauma.