S'pore saw 314 reported suicides in 2024; largest increase observed in 30-39 age group

There were a total of 314 suicides reported in 2024, according to a press release by the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS).

The largest increase in suicide deaths was found among adults aged 30 to 39.

In addition, for the sixth consecutive year, suicide persisted as the leading cause of death amongst youths aged 10 to 29.

The majority of deaths from suicide was also male, at 202 deaths or 64.8 per cent, while the suicide rate was 5.91 per 100,000 residents.

Pressures faced by adults aged 30 to 39 related to family problems, job stability and mental health

SOS added that the "complex pressures" faced by adults aged 30 to 39 are related to family problems, job stability and mental health challenges.

This is based on observations of those who have reached out to SOS via the 24-hour hotline or its 24-hour CareText services.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SOS, Gasper Tan, said:

"Behind every statistic is a life lost, families grieving, and communities left wondering what more could be done. The number of suicide deaths reported is a reminder that our work is far from over, especially among adults aged 30 to 39.

We must continue to invest in building a compassionate and connected society where no one has to struggle alone."

Number of suicides decreased from 2023

SOS added that based on its provisional data, the number of suicides decreased by 2.5 per cent from 2023's figure of 322.

However, the total number of suicide deaths for 2023 was subsequently updated by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to 434, a 34.8 percent increase from the provisional figure.

As part of its efforts, SOS said it has trained more than 6,000 individuals in responding to conversations around suicide.

It has also developed a junior programme to focus on youths aged 13 to 16 to detect early signs of distress and encourage early help-seeking.

In 2024, SOS said beyond suicide prevention efforts, it also provided in-person counselling services and support groups to 1,112 individuals who are struggling with suicide thoughts or attempts, as well as those who have lost loved ones to suicide.

Janil Puthucheary, the patron of SOS and Senior Minister of State of Sustainability and the Environment, said:

"We are determined to keep striving to reduce the number of suicides. Each represents an individual and a family struggling with a tragedy.

We will continue to do our best working with our volunteers and partners, collaborate and equip them to serve individuals and families who are trying to cope with a crisis."

Helplines:

If you or someone you know are in mental distress, here are some hotlines you can call to seek help, advice, or just a listening ear:

national mindline 1771: 1771

SOS 24-hour Hotline: 1-767

Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019

Institute of Mental Health: 6389-2222 (24 hours)

Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788 (for primary school-aged children)

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