HK's suicide rate drops to lowest in 5 years, but not for youth group

The Samaritans Befrienders Hong Kong records that the overall suicide rate dropped to its lowest in the past five years, but the child and adolescent group saw a worsening trend, with a 30% year-on-year increase.

According to statistics from the Coroner's Court, the city recorded 1,019 suicide deaths in 2025, among which 257 were elderly. Elderly suicide deaths remains the highest among all age groups.

There were 47 more child and adolescent suicide deaths this year than last, making it the only age group to record a significant increase. The main issues cited were familial relations, mental health, and interpersonal relationships.

Suicide prevention organisations have called for more investment in family therapy resources, an increase in human and monetary resources, and improvement in methods of collecting student suicide data.