JAPAN: Japan’s Suicide Rate Is Finally Falling, Thanks to Preventative Measures

Newsweek

According to a government report, Japan’s suicide rate has fallen to its lowest level in 22 years. However, officials cautioned that the country still has one of the highest suicide rates in the industrialized world, and that more prevention efforts are needed. In 2005, the Japanese government began collaborating with corporate and nongovernmental partners to increase awareness of suicide prevention. The World Health Organization has found that suicide rates among middle-aged and older adults have since decreased, while rates among young people have remained elevated. “We are behind in suicide prevention activities for the younger generation,” said Tadashi Takeshima, Center for Suicide Prevention director at the National Institute of Mental Health. “We need to strengthen support for youth by improving their educational and working environments.”

Spark Extra! Read more about suicide prevention in Japan.