In the time it takes you to watch the first half of a football match, another Irish person will have attempted suicide. This is truly appalling.

The prevalence of suicide amongst young people is alarming and simply unacceptable. 1015 young people under-35 died by suicide in the five years between 1999 and 2003. These are the known cases, and the figure can be underestimated by 10%. Ireland has the second highest rate of suicide among young men in Europe. Suicides account for more deaths than our roads.

Since 1997, the Department of Health’s mental health budget has been reduced from 11% of overall spend to 6.9% in 2005. The National Task Force on Suicide’s recommendations have not been implemented and there is no national State helpline to assist those feeling suicidal.

YFG are calling for an advertisement campaign to address the stigma of depression; a national support service, including funds for voluntary organisations; a tracking and long term support service for those who present at A+E and/or GPs having attempted suicide and deliberate self harm; and an immediate increase in spending by the Department of Health on this issue.

YFG will also be distributing turquoise wrist bands to highlight the issue.

Young Fine Gael are proposing positive initiatives for the removal of the stigma and taboo that surrounds the area of mental ill health.

Please click on the link to our campaign document TALK

Please also read Gary McTernan:An Appreciation. (Please download). Gary was a very valued member of YFG and is dearly missed.

You will also find details on some help lines that young people who are feeling depressed can contact for expert advise.