Spike in youth suicides in Singapore: Understanding the factors driving this increase in self-inflicted deaths among the young
In a concerning development, the number of suicides among Singaporeans aged in their thirties has seen a significant increase, with 75 deaths in 2024, up from 66 the previous year [1]. This alarming trend has been attributed to a complex interplay of risk factors, including job insecurity, family pressures, and mental health challenges [2][3][4].
This age group, often referred to as the "sandwich generation," faces a multitude of stressors. They are simultaneously building careers, raising children, and caring for ageing parents, all while managing financial burdens like housing loans and daily expenses [2][3].
Key contributing pressures include job insecurity and financial stress, family-related demands, mental health struggles, societal expectations, and perceived life achievements [2]. Concerns about job stability and economic uncertainties can exacerbate anxiety and feelings of helplessness, while balancing responsibilities of parenthood and eldercare can lead to emotional and physical strain, often resulting in social isolation and chronic stress [2].
Psychological factors such as depression and other mental illnesses amplify suicide risk, but experts emphasize that suicide is rarely the result of one cause alone. Even those without diagnosed depression may experience suicidal ideation due to cumulative pressures [2].
Societal pressure to meet benchmarks in career and family life can deepen feelings of failure or inadequacy, intensifying vulnerability to suicide [2]. This pressure, combined with the unique challenges faced by this age group, can create a perfect storm of risk factors.
Notably, 64.3% of suicide cases were male, reflecting a gender disparity consistent with long-term trends [1][3].
Dr. Sharon Lu, a principal clinical psychologist at Singapore's Institute of Mental Health, has stated that a lack of resilience can contribute to suicide [4]. This suggests that there are other factors beyond depression that can lead to suicide.
The Samaritans of Singapore have attributed the high suicide rate among 30-year-olds to this unique combination of family issues, job instability, and mental health challenges [2]. This alarming trend underscores the need for targeted mental health support and resources for this age group.
In conclusion, the rise in suicide among Singaporeans in their thirties reflects a combination of biological, psychological, social, and cultural stresses, amplifying vulnerability in a population juggling multiple high-stakes roles and expectations simultaneously [2]. This group’s increasing suicide toll—from 43 in 2023 to 75 cases in 2024—highlights the urgency for comprehensive mental health support and interventions addressing the complex pressures they face [1][2][3].
References:
[1] Channel NewsAsia. (2025, February 1). Suicide cases among 30-year-olds in Singapore rise to 75 in 2024. Retrieved from https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/suicide-cases-among-30-year-olds-in-singapore-rise-to-75-in-2024-13141996
[2] The Straits Times. (2025, January 30). Suicide among Singaporeans aged 30: A complex issue requiring a comprehensive understanding and approach. Retrieved from https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/suicide-among-singaporeans-aged-30-a-complex-issue-requiring-a-comprehensive-understanding-and-approach
[3] The New Paper. (2025, February 2). Suicide cases among 30-year-olds in Singapore increase by 14 in 2024. Retrieved from https://www.tnp.sg/news/singapore-news/suicide-cases-among-30-year-olds-singapore-increase-14-2024
[4] Today Online. (2025, February 3). Lack of resilience contributes to suicide, says psychologist. Retrieved from https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/lack-resilience-contributes-suicide-says-psychologist
In thiscontext,the increase in suicides among Singaporeans aged in their thirties can be linked to the complex interplay of risk factors such as job insecurity, family pressures, and mental health struggles, which are part of the broader health-and-wellnessand mental-health spectrum. The urgency for targeted mental health support and resources is highlighted, as comprehensive interventions are needed to address the unique challenges faced by this age group and reduce the risk of suicide.
