THE number of young people in Wales going to A&E with mental health concerns has increased by almost 25 per cent over the past three years.

Figures revealed by the Welsh Government show between April 2014 and March the following year 905 young people presented at A&E reporting mental health issues.

But between April 2016 and March this year this was 1,121 - up 24 per cent.

The statistics were revealed following a written question by Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire AM Angela Burns

Responding to the Conservative AM, health secretary Vaughan Gething said: "Ensuring children and young people who present in crisis have their needs met in a timely fashion, the Welsh Government has invested £2.7 million to develop crisis intervention teams.

"Working extended hours and at weekends, these teams work closely with adult psychiatric liaison services to undertake assessment, risk management, follow-up and liaison with other services as appropriate."

There are two NHS-run inpatient mental health units for young people in Wales in Bridgend and Conwy, with 27 beds in total.

Although going to A&E may be the only option when someone is at immediate risk, people with mental health problems should speak to their GP in the first instance, who can refer them to services such as therapy or prescribe medication.

Support is also available from the Samaritans on 116 123.

In an emergency always call 999.