One in four people affected by mental illness

One in four people are affected by mental illness in Ireland.

Mental Health Ireland (MHI) is taking steps to promote better mental health by encouraging young people to get involved in its national public-speaking event.

Aidan Fahy from MHI believes the mental health of a nation is a direct result of self reliance, self esteem and social responsibility.

He is calling on people around the country to learn more about mental health in a bid to reduce the stigma associated with it.

"What we are aiming to do with this project is to create an awareness of what positive mental health is all about and hopefully help people to understand and get rid of stigma associated with mental illness,” he said.