Record 529 Students Commit Suicide in Japan in 2024

Tokyo, Oct. 24 (Jiji Press)–The number of elementary, junior high and high school students in Japan who committed suicide in 2024 stood at 529, up by 16 from the preceding year and the highest since data became available in 1980, a government report showed Friday. According to the 2025 white paper on suicide prevention adopted at a cabinet meeting the same day, overall suicides in the nation fell by 1,517 from 2023 to 20,320, the second lowest since statistics began in 1978. The report said that overdose cases, including those involving over-the-counter drugs, accounted for a large share of suicide attempts among young people. The government is rushing to take countermeasures, such as revising the pharmaceutical and medical device law to tighten regulations on purchases of cold and cough drugs by people aged under 18. Suicides among elementary to high school students have been at their highest levels since the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2024 total comprised 15 elementary, 163 junior high and 351 high school students. The figure for junior high school students marked the highest on record. School-related issues were the most common factor for suicides among those aged 19 and younger, followed by health and family issues. The suicide rate, or the number of deaths by suicide per population of 100,000, has remained high among people aged 10 to 29, and has been the highest among the Group of Seven advanced nations, according to the report. The government found that many of those aged 15 to 29 had attempted to kill themselves by overdose. More than 40 pct of female suicide victims in their 20s had a history of attempting to kill themselves, with many of the cases involving the use of medicines. By occupation, the suicide rate was notably high among jobless young men. Among suicide victims who had jobs, health issues were the most common reason for both sexes. Problems with workplace relationships were also common. For men in their 20s with jobs, financial issues such as multiple debts were also a major factor. Of all people who took their lives in 2024, men accounted for 13,801 and women 6,519. The suicide rate declined for all generations except people aged 10-19. The government is stepping up efforts to address overdosing and support those with a history of attempted suicide. People struggling with mental health issues are advised to contact the nationwide consultation hotline at 0570-064-556. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]