Recession leads to rise in children with mental health problems

The recession has caused a surge in the numbers of Irish children suffering from social dysfunction, withdrawal, depression and various other mental health issues.

According to the organisers of this year's National Mental Healthcare Conference, clinics around the country have seen a 30% increase in the past two years in the number of children requiring treatment.

The conference - which takes place next month - will hear from a number of mental health experts on new treatments available in Ireland for young people suffering with mental health problems.