Hong Kong University Reports Record High Suicide Rates Among Children Under 15
The University of Hong Kong has reported that suicide rates for children under 15 reached a ten-year high in 2025. Researchers identified social media usage as a significant risk factor and are urging schools to increase mental health support.
The Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention at the University of Hong Kong released new data on World Suicide Prevention Day, highlighting a concerning trend regarding youth mental health. While overall suicide rates have shown a downward trajectory, the specific demographic of children under the age of 15 has experienced a sharp increase, reaching the highest level recorded in the past decade.
Researchers pointed to social media activity as a primary driver of this trend, noting that online behavior is a strong predictor of suicide risk among young people. The findings were released alongside a call to action for local educational institutions. The university is urging schools to implement more robust support systems for students, particularly following a cluster of suicide attempts that occurred around the beginning of the current academic year.
While the report provides a clear statistical warning, it does not detail specific policy changes or government-led interventions currently being considered. The focus remains on the correlation between digital environments and the mental well-being of pre-teen and early-teen populations.
📡 Media Analysis
How each outlet framed the story — angles, word choices, and what they chose to push or ignore.
Highlighted the statistical spike and the specific link to social media usage.
"decade-high"
🔍 What Nobody's Reporting
- ·Lack of specific data regarding the total number of cases or the exact percentage increase.
- ·Absence of government or health department response to the university's findings.
📰 Sources
0 A-rated source(s) among 1 total. Lowest trust: SCMP (B)