Hong Kong records 22 teenage suicide attempts or deaths in 3 months, double the number from 2022: university

In a concerning development, Hong Kong has witnessed a significant increase in the number of teenagers attempting suicide or taking their own lives. Over the past three months, 22 such incidents have been reported, which is double the total number recorded last year. This alarming information was shared by a city university. Professor Paul Yip Siu-fai, the founding director of the Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention at the University of Hong Kong, attributed this surge to students' struggle to adapt to life post the Covid-19 pandemic. He urged schools and parents to take immediate action.

Professor Yip expressed his concern over the rising trend, stating, 'We have seen more cases, more impulsive methods of suicide, and a younger population getting involved. ' The university's analysis of media reports revealed that 22 teenagers attempted suicide or ended their lives between August and October. A detailed examination of the data showed that 20 of these incidents occurred between September and October, coinciding with the start of the school year. Last year, 11 students attempted suicide or took their own lives, with seven of these cases recorded after the commencement of the school year.

Professor Yip noted that some of these deaths occurred on school premises, but emphasized the need for further research before drawing any conclusions. He highlighted the far-reaching impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on youths' personal growth and interpersonal relationships with classmates and teachers. He also pointed out that some students had their favourite teachers leave Hong Kong due to the emigration wave. He expressed concern that teachers, burdened with schoolwork, might not be able to holistically care for the mental well-being of students.