I am disturbed to report that over the last week I have learnt of four young men who have committed suicide, all by hanging, and this is extremely worrying.

Two of the men, discovered in woodland, who I understand were close friends, took their lives in Cramlington, Northumberland. Another took his life after (allegedly) killing his wife and young children. The fourth was a young and well-loved teacher, a friend of my youngest son who had everything to live for.

As the mother of two boys - now men - I empathise hugely with young men and the issues they face. I do think they have enormous pressures on them and, unlike girls, they are often not able to share their problems with friends, siblings and parents.

I am very concerned that the current and ongoing recession, with increased unemployment may tip more young men over the edge, when they have no income, no girlfriends and low self esteem.

I have no answers other than for us all to be more vigilant of signs of these mental health problems and to try and avert further tragic deaths.