Child Suicides in the COVID-19 Pandemic:The Need to Address Mental Health

Abstract

The rising number of child suicides in recent years has become a social concern, with causes such as academic underachievement and mental disorders, such as depression, dominating the statistics. The COVID-19 pandemic has also been linked to an increase in depressive tendencies due to isolation and loneliness. However, as child suicide is the result of a complex interplay of factors, it is essential that cases are carefully investigated under expert guidance. It is also important to understand the socio-economic factors, such as weakening social ties and declining self-esteem among children in Japan. It is believed that a change in adult attitudes and a major societal shift are needed to address this issue.