Focus on dangers to young people online

Focus on dangers to young people online

16 April 2025

A KILCLIEF woman has organised a conference focusing on the growing dangers young people face online – and the urgent need to prevent suicide across Northern Ireland.

The event, held at ICC Belfast, was organised by Jill Gordon, owner of mental health organisation Complete Mind Solutions.

She brought together frontline workers, community leaders, experts and survivors to talk honestly about some of the toughest issues affecting young people today, including grooming, cat-fishing, online influence and sexual exploitation – issues that many families and communities are quietly grappling with.

Recent figures from NISRA revealed that 221 people died by suicide in Northern Ireland in 2023, and that suicide rates have remained largely unchanged since 2015.

Discussing the statistics, Jill said: “We can no longer rely on outdated approaches – bold, innovative action is urgently needed to save lives and meet the realities of today’s challenges.”

From tackling the hidden dangers of the online world to building stronger, more connected communities, the event called for a shift in how society responds to suicide – not with the same strategies of yesterday, but with fresh thinking rooted in the realities of today.

One of the most moving parts of the day came when Paul McArdle bravely shared his own story of addiction and suicidal thoughts.

“I went through addiction for 21 years. It started off as fun but ended up bringing me to the lowest parts of my life,” he said.

“I didn’t want to live anymore. I couldn’t see any way out. But thankfully, I was one of the lucky ones.”

Paul also spoke about how important it is for people – especially men – to feel like they can ask for help.

“We think we have to be strong and mighty, but when you’re at your lowest, you realise you can’t do it on your own. The people who helped me were amazing – and they can be amazing for anyone.”

The day also included a panel discussion with Kurtis Reid from the Belfast Telegraph, MLA Cara Hunter and Stevan Parkin from the Online Gaming Academy, plus talks from leading voices in suicide prevention and mental health.

There was also a strong focus on practical tips – things individuals, schools, organisations and families can do right now to make online spaces safer and help young people feel less alone.

Jill said the aim of the event was “to keep the conversation going”.

“This was about getting real – having honest conversations, sharing real-life experiences, and figuring out what we can all do to keep our young people safe. Everyone here came with open hearts and minds. It was powerful.”

Rob McConnell, Chief Executive of ICC Belfast, said he was proud to support such an important event.

He remaked: “These conversations matter. The passion and commitment in the room today was truly inspiring. We all have a part to play in making sure no more young lives are lost to suicide.”

For Jill, this event is just the beginning. She will now begin a new phase of campaigning, bringing fresh, innovative ideas to Northern Ireland’s ongoing battle against suicide. Her focus is on real-world solutions that reflect the challenges young people are facing today – not just recycling what’s been done before.

“Yesterday’s solutions don’t solve today’s problems,” she said. “We need to keep evolving, keep listening and keep pushing for change.”