An interesting research study on suicide among Japanese people age less than 30 was published by Okada and colleagues in JAMA Network Open on August 7, 2023.
The researchers learned that the suicide rate increased in this population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rates of suicide and triggers varied as young people went from middle-school to high-school to university.
The rate of suicide at all age groups in the study were 2 to 2 1/2 times higher in boys than girls. This is a typical pattern seen throughout the lifespan.
There were 4 main stressors associated with suicide in these young people. One was school-related (underachievement and conflict with classmates). Another was family issues (conflict with parents and receiving severe verbal reprimands). A third was health issues (depression and other mental illnesses). The fourth was worry about the future.
Here are some additional findings:
1. Although the rate of suicide was higher in boys than girls, the rate increased more for girls than boys during the pandemic. 2. Depression and other mental illnesses were more common in girls. This is consistent with studies showing females typically struggle with more negative emotion than males. 3. The negative effects from family conflict became less important as the students moved from middle school to high school to university. However, school and health issues became more significant over that timeframe. 4. Young people under age 30 represent a high risk group for suicide.
This study supports current understanding that suicide is a serious risk among children and young adults. It is aggravated when there is more stress and less supporting relationships in their life.
Adults need to be alert for indications of suicidal thought among young people. Take statements of suicidal thoughts seriously. Have them evaluated quickly.
Also, don’t forget that there is a national suicide hotline: 988. Calls are confidential, and you can call about yourself or another person
Peter M. Hartmann, MD
Family Medicine & Psychiatry
