There is a growing concern in most countries today about the increasing malaise and stress in young people. Suicides, substance abuse, depression, anxiety and eating disorders have all been linked to stress. Young people are experiencing more social and psychological problems than ever before. The trends indicate an increase in pressures faced by young people, together with a general decline in coping skills and absence of social support. Such patterns have emerged worldwide and represent a challenge to policy-makers, service providers and families alike. This book helps to answer such questions as: why do some young people suffer depression following a parental separation and not others?; why do some young people develop eating disorders as a result of exam stress and not others?; and why do some young people see no other option than suicide as a solution to the building pressures in their lives?

Author Biography

Sarah MacNamara, B.A., M.A., D. Phil (Oxon) is a researcher at the Children's Research Centre, Trinity College, Dublin Ireland. She has been working in the area of adolescent mental health and prevention in many capacities and institutions for several years.