Despite an overall decrease in suicide cases compared to the peak of 1138 cases in 2024, there has been a rise among the 10–19 age group, reaching a ten-year high.
Despite an overall decrease in suicide cases compared to the peak of 1138 cases in 2024, there has been a rise among the 10–19 age group, reaching a ten-year high.
Last year, 46 young people died by suicide in Hong Kong, exceeding the figure of 34 cases from the previous year. Most of these deaths occurred due to falls from height, including the death of a 10-year-old girl.
In contrast, the 40–49 age demographic showed the largest decrease in suicides, registering 138 cases compared to 186 cases the year before.
Although the total number of suicides has decreased relative to the 2024 peak, it remains significantly higher than pre-COVID-19 levels. Between 2016 and 2019, cases fluctuated between 900 and 950, but since the start of the pandemic, they have not dropped below the 1000 mark.
Professor Paul Ip Siu-fai from the Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention at the University of Hong Kong noted that after COVID-19, there has been a worrying trend of digital isolation, as young people turn to screens and even artificial intelligence chatbots instead of seeking human connection to solve their problems.
He emphasized that this virtual alienation is so critical that many countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, are attempting to limit the time minors spend in front of screens. The professor also pointed out that some cases may be related to impulsivity and the absence of early signs of distress. Nevertheless, he stressed the importance of creating a supportive environment for youth where they feel cared for and accepted, given that many in this age group have experienced 'deep hopelessness.'