A SHORT film aimed at raising awareness about the risk of suicide among young people in the west is due to receive an international screening next week.
The film, Shadows, focuses on issues such as exam stress, domestic violence and sexuality which can exert pressure on young people.
It was made by a group of young affiliates of Roscommon Lions Club.
The short film will be screened in cinemas in the west and throughout the State in the coming months.
It will be shown before an international audience of several thousand at the Lions International Forum in Bologna, Italy, next weekend.
One of the team involved, Shane O’Brien (19) of Oran, near Roscommon town, said there had been 10 deaths from suicide in his area over the past five years.
“It was a project that meant a lot to all of us involved,” Mr O’Brien added.
He was one of a team of nine young people working on the project, with support given by Roscommon Integrated Development Company and Roscommon Lions Club, along with mental health professionals.
Mr O’Brien previously secured the Lions International Young Ambassador of the 20th Century title among members in Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales. He will compete in the European final of this award in Italy.
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