An underlying and undetected mental health epidemic is causing young at-risk people to turn to alcohol, drugs and, possibly, suicide.
But a community group in Co Cork is helping to buck the trend in identifying, and assisting at-risk second- and third-level students along with their families.
The group, backed by professional people who offered their services voluntarily, is currently assisting more than 200 families in the greater Kinsale area which encompasses five neighbouring parishes.
Juvenile liaison officer, Garda James O’Mahony, who spearheads the group, said prevention and intervention are the key principles driving Kinsale Youth Support Services.
Known as KYSS, the group has appointed a part-time youth health worker, Tom Walsh.
Garda O’Mahony said many young people mask their anxiety and depression by turning to drugs and alcohol.
Furthermore, research showed, in some cases, young people who were the victims of bullying, abuse, problems at home, and low self-esteem were finding life difficult for one reason or another.
Garda O’Mahony thanked up to 30 professionals from all walks of life who are behind the KYSS initiative, including a total of 18 GPs, healthcare experts, teachers, and guidance counsellors.
Source: Eddie Cassidy, Irish Examiner, 15/05/13
Safer Student Nights
eBulletin
Poll
