Japan goes on student suicide watch as school term starts
Sayoko is watching her 13-year-old son more closely than he probably realises as he settles into his first year of junior high school in Yokohama. He is keeping up with his classes and is fortunate to be popular because of his sporting prowess. But Sayoko, who did not want to give her full name, remembers having a hard time at the same age, so she is alert to any sign that her son might be…
Parents and teachers in Japan are on high alert as schools reopen, following a record number of student suicides last year. Sayoko, a concerned mother, has heightened her vigilance after her son's friend tragically took his own life four years ago. The Children and Families Agency has designated August 20 to September 9 as a period for intensified efforts to identify at-risk students and bolster suicide prevention measures. Government videos encourage young viewers to seek anonymous support through phone or online chat.
Experts highlight that the transition back to school after a summer break can be especially challenging, as students face academic pressures, bullying, and family economic concerns. Research indicates that anxiety and depression are the most common mental health signs among children. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare reported a record high of 538 student suicides last year, surpassing the previous record of 529 in 2024.
Female students experienced a 36% increase in suicides, while male student suicides decreased by 20%. September saw the highest incidence of student suicides, with 59 incidents recorded.
To combat these alarming trends, the Tokyo-based TELL Lifeline is organizing the Step Up Challenge, aiming to raise awareness of the mental health issues facing young people and provide them with resources and support. Key warning signs include changes in behavior, withdrawal from social interactions, altered sleep patterns, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and irritability.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
