The suicide rate in Hong Kong that occurred throughout 2022 was the highest in the last 15 years. This was revealed by The Samaritan Befrienders agency on Saturday (29/7/2023).
The organization said data from the Coronary Court showed 1.080 people died last year, which is 14,73 for every 100.000 people. About 60 percent of those who died were men.
“Nearly half, or 477, of the suicides were elderly people aged 60 and over. The figure is the highest since 1973, the group said," RTHK said.
This non-governmental organization suspects that the effects of the Covid outbreak may also be an aggravating factor because older people have lost opportunities to work or socialize during the pandemic. Because of this, the suicide rate in these circles has increased quite sharply.
The group says suicide rates among people in their 20s and 50s are also increasing. The Samaritan advised Hong Kongers in need to seek support and urged the government to devote more resources to mental health services.
