A new mental health service aimed at young people is to open in Limerick later this year, it has been announced.

Jigsaw is a network of programmes across Ireland, which aims to make sure that every teenager and young adult has someone to talk to if they are having a mental health issue. It is aimed at young people aged between 12 and 25.

One-to-one support is provided and the service is free of charge. It is already available in 10 communities nationwide, including Clondalkin in Dublin, Meath, Kerry, Galway and Donegal.

"I am very pleased that we have been able to secure the Jigsaw service for Limerick. We know that research has shown that around 75% of mental disorders emerge before the age of 25. This is a critical period for children and young adults which can have a bearing on the rest of their lives.

"Young people experiencing anxiety, anger, stress, social isolation and depression can avail of up to six counselling sessions with Jigsaw. Early intervention is critical to mental health wellbeing," commented the Minister for Mental Health, Social Care and Primary Care, Kathleen Lynch.

Recruitment for a project manager will begin next month and then a suitable premises will be secured. The Department of Health said that it expects Jigsaw Limerick to have around 1,500 face-to-face contacts in its first year.

According to the HSE's Mid West Chief Officer, Bernard Gloster, this is a ‘major boost' for teenagers and young adults in Limerick.  

"Far too often we encounter people when they are in crisis, none more so than those who experience mental health pressures. Jigsaw is about ensuring young people have access to youth friendly health services. We cannot underestimate the importance of proactively supporting positive mental health for young people," he said.

Jigsaw is run by Headstrong - the National Centre for Youth Mental Health. For more information on Headstrong and Jigsaw, click here