Japan is facing renewed concern over student suicides as the start of the school term coincides with a seasonal increase in deaths among young people.
Suicides among school-aged children in Japan have historically risen around the beginning of September, when students return from summer vacation. The pattern has prompted renewed calls for schools, families and communities to strengthen support for young people during periods of heightened stress.
The concern comes despite Japan recording a broader decline in suicides. Government data showed that 19,097 people died by suicide in 2025, the lowest annual total since records began in 1978. However, suicides among elementary, junior high and high school students reached 532, the highest level recorded since comparable statistics began in 1980.
School-related difficulties remain an important concern. Among student suicides recorded in 2025, academic difficulties were cited most frequently among school-related reasons, followed by concerns about future career or life paths. The figures highlight that young people can face multiple pressures rather than a single cause.
The Japan Times report also highlighted the experience of Eri Mametsuka, who attempted suicide at 16 and survived with paralysis after jumping from a third-floor balcony. She has since become involved in suicide-prevention efforts and speaks publicly about the pressures young people can face.
Experts and suicide-prevention advocates have emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs and ensuring young people have accessible places to seek help, particularly during major transitions such as returning to school.
The World Health Organization has also identified suicide among children and young people in Japan as a serious concern, reporting that more than 500 elementary, junior high and high school students died by suicide in 2024.
Japan’s government has been moving toward stronger child-suicide prevention measures, including greater coordination among government agencies and expanded efforts to address risks affecting young people.
The September pattern has become an important warning period for schools and families. As students return to classrooms, the challenge extends beyond academic pressure to ensuring young people know where they can turn for support when they are struggling.
