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Japan saw record high suicides last year

By on January 22, 2021

For every 100,000 people in Japan, 16.6  have taken their lives in 2020.

Citing police data, the health ministry today said a total of 20,919 people committed suicide last year. The number rose by 750, or 3.7 percent compared to 2019.

2020 saw a sharp increase in suicide cases particularly among women. The data reveals that the number of women who took their lives last year jumped by 885 (total 6,976), the first increase in two years according to the ministry. In contrast, the number of suicide cases involving men have dropped by 135 (total 13,943), a continuing downward trend for the 11th consecutive year.

This is the first sharp increase in suicide rate since 2009 following the Lehman Bankruptcy. Mental health experts around the world have warned that diverse factors including economic hardship, stress and family abuse could fuel suicide during the pandemic.

The health ministry said it will examine the situation and take appropriate measures.

 

 

 

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