The Japan Times reported on its front page that on the 24th, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare released the 2025 edition of the "Suicide Countermeasures White Paper." While the overall number of suicides has decreased, the actual number of suicides among young people in their 20s has increased. The number of university students about to find jobs who committed suicide has exceeded 400. For university students often treated as adults, it is difficult for those around them to notice abnormalities, and experts point out that "university measures and support are necessary."

According to the white paper, the number of suicides in 2024 was 20,320, a decrease of 1,517 from the previous year, making it the second lowest since 1978.

This white paper analyzed the unique suicide situations among young people over the past decade. Although the overall number has decreased, the number of young people has increased. The number of suicides among elementary school students, junior high school students, and high school students in 2024 reached a record high of 529. It was broken down into 351 high school students, 163 junior high school students, and 15 elementary school students.

The number of university students increased by 24 compared to the previous year, reaching 434. According to age, the highest number was among 21-year-olds, corresponding to third- and fourth-year students. Regarding the percentage of reasons and motivations (multiple accounts) for suicide among 21-year-olds, concerns about "career paths (excluding entrance exams)" such as employment were the highest, at 24.2% for males and 19.5% for females.

Compared to junior high school and high school students, who are often affected by worries from school and family, university students also have various issues such as career paths, academic pressure, and alcohol. Dr. Nobuyoshi Enodo from the Department of Psychiatry at Fukuoka University Hospital pointed out: "Many university students have left their parents and are increasingly connected with society, so the background and factors are complex, making it difficult for those around them to notice any abnormalities."

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1846908427859968/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.