A survey by the Irish College of Psychiatrists says there has been a major rise in mental health referrals and relapses during Covid-19.
It said that the pandemic has added enormous strain on an already fragile mental health service and there is little appreciation at a policy level for how serious the situation now is on the ground.
The college surveyed 180 psychiatrist members on the impact of Covid-19 in the seven-month period from June 2020 to the end of December.
Comparing the second half of last year to the first half to the end of May, 36% of respondents reported a significant increase in referrals for secondary mental health services.
A significant increase in the volume of emergency interventions was reported by 39% of respondents.
President of the Irish College of Psychiatrists Dr William Flannery said the survey does not include the impact of the most recent lockdown, which began in January, so it can be assumed the figures it reveals have worsened.