Hong Kong youth suicide rate rises among children under 15

The University of Hong Kong’s Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention has reported a significant rise in the suicide rate among children under the age of 15. While Hong Kong’s overall suicide rate saw a slight decline from 13.8 per 100,000 residents in 2024 to 13.0 per 100,000 in 2025, the youth demographic experienced a sharp increase.

Statistics show the suicide rate for those under 15 rose to 2.9 per 100,000 residents in 2025, up from 0.9 per 100,000 in 2024. Researchers noted that among the 15 known cases in this age group last year, 14 were male and one was female.

Professor Paul Yip Siu-fai, the centre’s founding director, described the trend as “very alarming.” Key contributing factors identified by researchers include intense academic pressure, peer relationship issues, and the aggressive use of social media. The centre has urged schools to enhance mental health awareness and support students during transitions, such as moving from primary to secondary school.