TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in Taiwan last year, marking its return to the nation's top 10 causes of death for the first time in 14 years.
According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, there were 4,062 suicides in Taiwan last year, an increase of 164 compared to 2023, per CNA.
Last year, the suicide mortality rate was highest for people aged 65 and above, at 25.5 per 100,000 population. However, the largest number of suicides occurred in the 45 to 64 age group with 1,405 cases, followed by 1,244 cases among those aged 25 to 44, and 1,120 among seniors aged 65 and above.
Taiwanese Society of Suicidology Chair Lu Shu-jen (呂淑貞) said that suicide among children and adolescents in Taiwan has seen a significant increase, particularly among females. She attributed the main causes to the uncertainties young people face in school, interpersonal relationships, and entering the workforce.
Lu said that middle-aged adults may be at higher risk of suicide due to factors such as workplace stress and financial burdens. She added that elderly people may also have suicidal thoughts stemming from feelings of loneliness and illness. Lu also mentioned that some families in Taiwan even experienced group suicides after falling victim to fraud.
Lu urged the health ministry to develop suicide prevention programs tailored to different demographic groups, incorporating elements such as school education, family education, and social emotional learning. She also called on the government to increase funding for mental health counseling and suicide prevention programs.
Jenny Wu (吳佳儀), a professor in the School of Nursing at National Taiwan University, said that suicide is a behavior caused by many factors, with more than 90% of cases related to mental illness. She added that Taiwan’s suicide prevention system is still inadequate. Wu called for better integration of resources across schools, workplaces, and the healthcare system to reduce suicides.
In Taiwan, local health bureaus primarily handle suicide prevention. These agencies are responsible for assigning personnel to follow up with high-risk individuals and referring them to medical institutions when necessary. The bureaus also collaborate with social welfare departments and private counseling providers to create case lists and offer support.
