Alexa Ray Joel is going back to school to study psychology following her apparent suicide attempt.

Alexa - the 23-year-old daughter of 'Piano Man' singer Billy Joel and ex-wife Christie Brinkley - was rushed to hospital last month after reportedly taking an overdose of pills but has now said she plans to go back into education to study because she wants to help other young women who find themselves in the same position.

The singer-songwriter wrote on her MySpace page: 'I have many exciting new developments for the New Year. Most importantly, to help young girls with something I feel I know a GREAT deal about: Heartbreak-Related Depression.

"Although it does not get much attention in our society, it is a very serious and painful condition. I hope to bring this topic more to light, I'm even going back to school for psychology in the hope to learn more about this and many other afflictions that many of us have had to face.'

Alexa split up with boyfriend Jimmy Riot twice last year, and thanked fans for standing by her at such a difficult time.

She wrote: 'I just wanted to thank you all for the incredible outpouring of love and support. It's certainly been a whirlwind of a month, but reading all of your encouraging posts has never failed to cheer me up!!!'