A recent survey has uncovered a troubling trend in adolescent mental health across Ireland. More than one in four secondary school students report their mental well-being as “bad” or “very bad,” according to a study by the Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland (RCSI).
The comprehensive survey, conducted in 2021, gathered responses from over 4,400 teenagers in north Dublin, Cavan, and Monaghan. Researchers suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic may have played a significant role in these concerning results.
This revelation sheds light on the pressing need for increased mental health support for young people in Ireland. As the nation grapples with the aftermath of lockdowns and social distancing measures, the long-term impact on teen mental health becomes increasingly apparent.
According to the Irish Examiner, these findings underscore the importance of developing targeted interventions and resources to address the mental health challenges faced by Ireland’s youth in the post-pandemic era.