Nearly half of Irish people think people with mental health issues are untrustworthy.

Research by St Patrick's Mental Health Services has found there is an inherent stigma surrounding mental health in Ireland - with treatment for such issues commonly perceived as a personal failure.

Some 47% of respondents said they believe people with mental health issues are untrustworthy, while nearly one-third would not trust someone with a previous mental health problem to babysit.

Paul Gilligan is CEO of St. Patrick's Mental Health Services. He says the findings are disconcerting.

"The research findings are very disappointing, but they're not surprising" he told Newstalk Breakfast.

"Only 53% of respondents agree that people with a mental health difficulty are trustworthy, 67% agree that Irish people view being treated for a mental health difficulty as a weakness".

"And I suppose even more disconcerting, 29% of respondents would not trust someone with a previous mental health difficulty to babysit".

"So they are quite disappointing" he added.

Meanwhile, iconic landmarks around Ireland will light up orange today to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.

Trinity College Dublin, Christ Church Cathedral, Heuston Station, Blarney Castle, NUI Galway and Belfast City Hall are just some of the buildings taking part in the Cycle Against Suicide movement.

Thousands of homes and communities will also take part in the light up event at 9.00pm tonight.

It comes as the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland calls for more frontline service to help people with mental health difficulties.

Consultant psychiatrist is Dr John Hillery.

Anyone seeking help in relation to mental health issues can call The Samaritans on 16123, or text 087-260-9090