Increase in youth suicides sparks concern in China

A recent study conducted by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has revealed a rise in suicides among young people in China in recent years.

The study showed that the number of suicides among children aged five to 14 increased by nearly 10% annually from 2010 to 2021. Conversely, the figure for individuals aged 15 to 24 initially declined by 7% through 2017 but then witnessed a significant increase of nearly 20% over the next four years.

While the increase in suicides among young people remains relatively small in absolute numbers, there has been an overall decline of 5.3% annually in suicide rates across all age groups in the country during the 2010-2021 period. Researchers have attributed this decline to a nationwide mental health program.

They have emphasized that children and adolescents face immense mental pressure and an elevated risk of suicide due to intense competition and academic expectations. In fact, it has been noted that half of those diagnosed with depressive disorder in China are students.

In light of these findings, the researchers have called upon the government to prioritize the development of programs specifically targeting the mental health of children and adolescents. Earlier this year, a boarding school student's suicide garnered significant attention in China, shedding light on the mental health challenges faced by young individuals.

Additionally, the recent death of Hong Kong-born singer and songwriter Coco Lee, who had been battling depression for several years, further highlighted the importance of addressing mental health concerns.

In response to growing concerns, Beijing announced an overhaul of its education sector in 2021, including the ban on for-profit tutoring companies teaching the school curriculum.