Japan recorded its highest number of student suicides ever last year – even as overall suicide figures fell – highlighting deepening mental health concerns among the nation’s youth that experts say are not being adequately addressed.
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A record 529 suicides were reported in 2024 among elementary, junior high and senior high school students – surpassing the previous high of 514 set in 2022 – with a significant increase among girls, according to a report by the Asahi newspaper citing health ministry data.
The leading causes were linked to school-related stressors, such as poor academic performance, conflicts with peers and anxiety over future career prospects, which were cited in more than 51 per cent of the cases.
Health problems, including depression, were cited in 31 per cent of cases, while family-related issues were a factor in 20 per cent of cases.
September saw the highest number of student suicides, coinciding with the end of summer break and the start of Japan’s second school term, a time when back-to-school anxiety can be heightened. Official statistics have previously shown that September 1 historically has the highest suicide rate among those under 18.
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Why South Korea has the highest suicide rate among developed nations
Why South Korea has the highest suicide rate among developed nations
Various organisations have stepped up to raise public awareness regarding the challenges students face around this time of year.