Almost 4 in 10 individuals who visited emergency rooms final yr on account of self-inflicted accidents or suicide makes an attempt have been of their teenagers or 20s, highlighting rising psychological well being considerations amongst younger individuals and the pressing want for stronger prevention measures.
Based on the Ministry of Well being and Welfare and the Nationwide Medical Heart, 35,170 instances of self-inflicted damage or suicide makes an attempt have been seen at regional and native emergency medical facilities final yr.
Though the whole quantity dropped by roughly 11,000 from 2023, these instances nonetheless accounted for 0.8 p.c of all ER visits for the third consecutive yr, reflecting a broader decline in total emergency care use.
Of those that tried self-harm or suicide, roughly 21,500 have been girls, accounting for 61.1 p.c, whereas practically 13,700 have been males, representing 38.9 p.c.
By age group, individuals of their 20s made up the biggest share at 23.6 p.c, adopted by youngsters at 16.3 p.c — collectively accounting for 39.9 p.c. These of their 30s represented 14.7 p.c, these of their 40s accounted for 14.3 p.c and people of their 50s have been 13.1 p.c.
ER visits linked to self-injury peaked in January at 10.7 p.c, a sample mirrored in suicide fatalities.
Suicide deaths rose for each women and men final January in comparison with the identical month the yr earlier than. The variety of girls who died by suicide rose 9.1 p.c, from 298 to 325, whereas suicides amongst males rose 42.4 p.c, from 689 to 981.
Consultants say the spike could also be tied to the “Werther impact,” the place the suicide of a well known determine can result in related instances. The suicide loss of life of actor Lee Solar-kyun in December 2023 could have influenced susceptible people.
If somebody you realize reveals warning indicators of suicide, contact Korea’s Suicide Disaster hotline at 109. For overseas language help to attach with psychological well being professionals, name Danuri Portal’s helpline at 1577-1366.
