Alarming Rise In Youth Suicides In China Calls For Urgent Action

Urgent calls for action and targeted mental health programs echo across the nation as researchers attribute the alarming trend to intense academic competition and its detrimental impact on young people's mental well-being.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 7 July 2023 10:46 am

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A recent study conducted by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has revealed a concerning increase in suicides among young people in China. While the overall suicide rate declined by 5.3% annually from 2010 to 2021 across all age groups, the study highlighted a stark contrast for children and adolescents. Shockingly, the number of suicides among children aged five to 14 surged by nearly 10% each year during the same period, while individuals aged 15 to 24 witnessed a 7% decline until 2017, followed by a staggering 20% increase in the subsequent four years.

Researchers attributed this distressing trend to the intense competition and pressure young people face to excel academically, leading to severe mental disorders and heightened suicide risks. In fact, the study found that half of the individuals diagnosed with depressive disorder in China were students, underlining the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support tailored specifically to children and adolescents, according to HindustanTimes.

As a response to these alarming findings, the research team is urging the Chinese government to prioritize the development of programs that specifically target the mental well-being of young people. They emphasize the importance of early intervention and support systems that address the underlying causes of mental distress, ultimately aiming to reduce the tragic loss of young lives.

The study's release comes on the heels of recent high-profile cases that have sparked national attention and discussions surrounding mental health in China. The suicide of a boarding school student earlier this year and the tragic death of renowned Hong Kong-born singer and songwriter Coco Lee, who had been battling depression for years, have further highlighted the urgency of addressing mental health concerns.

In response to these growing concerns, Beijing has unveiled a significant overhaul of its education sector. This includes a ban on for-profit companies involved in teaching the school curriculum, signaling a potential shift towards a more holistic and balanced approach to education that prioritizes the well-being of students.