A survey of over 350 young men in the Mid West region has found that almost half of them had experienced suicidal tendencies, and that 4% of them had actually planned their own suicides.
The survey undertaken by the Mid Western Health Board found that only 4% of those with problems actually sought professional help.
The study was undertaken to help develop health strategies for suicide prevention among young men.
Internationally the rate of suicide increases with age, but in Ireland rates are highest among young people, particularly young men aged between 20 and 30.
The survey has found that suicidal tendencies, resistance to professional help and pessimism about the future exist in the male psyche.
The Board says considerable attention needs to be given to marketing male orientated health services and to giving greater support to families.
The research found that young males with problems prefer to get support from their family, particularly mothers and friends.
