Japan: Number of Suicides, by year
YearNumber of suicides
202221,881
202121,007
202021,081
201920,169
201820,840
201721,321
201621,897
201524,025
201425,427
201327,283
  • Region: Japan
  • Time period: 2013 to 2022
  • Published: Mar 2023

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Mar 30, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Trend in the Number of Suicides from 2013 to 2022

The number of suicides in Japan saw a general decline from 27,283 in 2013 to a low of 20,169 in 2019, before experiencing fluctuations in subsequent years. Notably, there was an increase to 21,081 in 2020, a slight decrease to 21,007 in 2021, and then a rise to 21,881 in 2022. This pattern indicates a potential reversal of the decreasing trend observed in the mid-2010s.

Comparison of Suicide Numbers at the Start and End of the Decade

Between 2013 and 2022, the number of suicides in Japan decreased by 5,402 cases, from 27,283 to 21,881. This represents a significant overall reduction in the number of suicides over the decade, highlighting the effectiveness of intervention measures or changes in societal factors affecting mental health during this period.

Notable Yearly Changes in Suicide Numbers

The most significant year-over-year decrease occurred between 2015 and 2016, with the number of suicides falling from 24,025 to 21,897, a reduction of 2,128 cases. Conversely, a notable increase was observed from 2021 to 2022, with the number rising by 874 cases, indicating a recent uptick in the number of suicides after a period of relative stability.

Lowest and Highest Number of Suicides in the Decade

The lowest number of suicides recorded within the decade was in 2019, with 20,169 cases, while the highest was in 2013, with 27,283 cases. The difference between these two years highlights a significant variance in the annual number of suicides, underscoring the importance of ongoing monitoring and prevention efforts.

Recent Uptick in Suicide Numbers

After reaching a decade low in 2019, the number of suicides in Japan showed a slight but noticeable increase in the following years, culminating in 21,881 cases in 2022. This recent uptick may signal emerging challenges in mental health and the need for renewed focus on suicide prevention strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What trend was observed in the number of suicides in Japan?

There was a general decline in the number of suicides in Japan from 27,283 in 2013 to 20,169 in 2019, followed by fluctuations in subsequent years with 21,881 suicides in 2022.

What were the highest and lowest number of suicides recorded in Japan during the studied decade?

The lowest number of suicides in Japan within the decade was in 2019 with 20,169 cases, while the highest was in 2013 with 27,283 cases.

Terms and Definitions

Suicide is the act of causing one's own death, often as a result of despair or mental health problems including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse, or feelings of loneliness or isolation.

The suicide rate is a statistical measure that reflects the number of suicides that occur in a specific population during a specific time period, usually per 100,000 people per year. It is a crucial index to understand the severity of suicidal problems within any population.

Suicide prevention encompasses various collective measures and initiatives undertaken by health professionals, social workers, government, non-government organizations, and society as a whole to reduce the incidence of suicide. These measures may include mental health awareness campaigns, support hotlines, and therapeutic interventions.

Mental health refers to a person's condition regarding their psychological, emotional, and social well-being. Mental health affects how people think, feel, and act; it also helps determine how they handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental illnesses can negatively affect an individual's mental health, potentially leading to suicidal thoughts.

Stigma refers to a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person. In the context of suicide, stigma can be a barrier that prevents individuals from seeking help when struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts. This can significantly impact suicide rates and the effectiveness of prevention efforts.

Social Isolation is a state characterized by a lack of contact or meaningful relationships with other people. This state can contribute to feelings of loneliness, increased stress, and reduced mental health, which can potentially lead an individual to consider or commit suicide.
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Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, impacting people's emotions, behaviors, and thinking patterns, yet often neglected due to societal stigma and lack of awareness. Read more »