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ATU researcher co-authors national framework for student mental health and suicide prevention
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) researcher Dr Deirdre Byrne has co-authored Ireland’s revised National Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework, Folláine le Chéile, officially launched by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) on 13 October 2026.
Dr Byrne and Dr Jessica Surdey, Assistant Professor of Education at National College of Ireland (NCI), led the comprehensive revision of the framework in collaboration with the HEA and the Framework Advisory Group.
The revised framework provides a national roadmap for promoting student mental health and wellbeing and strengthening suicide-prevention measures across the higher education sector.
The official launch took place at the Herbert Park Hotel in Dublin and brought together representatives from higher education, student support services, government agencies and the wider wellbeing sector. The event included a presentation by Dr Byrne and Dr Surdey on the development of the framework, followed by a panel discussion on the future of student mental health supports in Ireland.
Dr Byrne’s contribution reflects ATU’s commitment to advancing student wellbeing through evidence-informed research, policy development and collaboration. Her work focuses on the social, educational and environmental factors that influence student wellbeing and on developing sustainable approaches to mental health promotion in higher education.
Commenting on the launch, Dr Byrne said:
“Folláine le Chéile represents a collective commitment to creating higher education environments in which students can thrive academically, socially and personally.
Building on the recommendations of the national review, the revised framework provides a shared vision for promoting student wellbeing through partnership, inclusion and evidence-informed action.
The framework draws on learning from across the sector and responds to emerging challenges affecting students. It promotes a whole-institution approach, recognising that mental health and wellbeing are influenced not only by individual support services but also by the wider educational, social and community environment.
Dr Michele Glacken, Vice President for Students at ATU, said:
“We congratulate Dr Deirdre Byrne on her significant contribution to this important national initiative. Her role as co-author of the revised framework highlights ATU’s commitment to research that can positively influence the mental wellbeing of students, our university communities and the wider higher education sector.”
The publication of Folláine le Chéile marks an important step in strengthening Ireland’s approach to student mental health and suicide prevention and supporting positive educational and life outcomes for students.
The revised framework is available on the Higher Education Authority website.
Photo caption: Students at Atlantic Technological University (ATU).
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