Young women in Ireland have the highest levels of depression in Europe.

A new study from Eurofound has shown that 17 percent of Irish women between the ages of 15 and 24 are either moderately or severely depressed. The EU average is nine percent. The report indicates that Ireland's economic crisis, as well as other issues such as cyberbullying and eating disorders, are key factors contributing to the increased number of young people experiencing depression. Gender is also a point of contrast within the study, with considerable gaps between men and women recorded in Ireland, Sweden, Germany, and Denmark. "Across the EU, 14 percent of young adults are at risk of depression, and 4 percent of young people aged 15-24 suffer from chronic depression," said the study. "Young women are more likely to find themselves not in employment, education or training, and are significantly more likely to suffer depressive symptoms than young men." The study showed that young women are far more likely to internalise events, which can lead to self harm, disordered eating, and depression.