Record Rise in Student Suicides Reported in Japan
The year 2024 marked a record increase in student suicides in Japan. According to data from the Ministry of Health, a total of 529 suicides were reported among elementary, junior high, and high school students. This figure surpasses the previous record of 514 in 2022, making it the highest number ever recorded. A notable increase was observed particularly among female students, with more than 51% of the cases linked to school-related stress.
According to the ministry, the main causes included academic failure, peer conflict, and anxiety about the future. Health issues such as depression accounted for 31% of the cases, while family-related problems made up 20%. The highest number of suicides occurred in September, coinciding with the end of summer vacation and the start of the second school term. September 1 has long been known as the day with the highest suicide rates among Japanese youth.
Japan's national broadcaster NHK launched a social media awareness campaign called “The Night of August 31” to give young people a platform to express their back-to-school anxiety.
Experts emphasize the need for more comprehensive and systematic mental health support. Japan remains the only G7 country where suicide is the leading cause of death among young people.
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