Singapore Teens: The Rise of Youth Suicides – A Came‑to‑Reality Tale
*In 2018, 19 ten‑to‑nineteen‑year‑olds chose the ultimate exit.
That’s a record since the first suicide numbers were tallied back in 1991.
Key Stats (2017‑2018)
- Teen male suicides: 7 in 2017 19 in 2018
- Total suicides (all ages): 397 in 2018, up 36 from 2017
- Suicide rate: 8.36 per 100,000 residents (up from 7.74)
- Young people (10‑29 years) suicide figure: 94 in 2018
- External causes vs. suicide: For every 10 deaths by external causes, 6 were by suicide
Why the Numbers keep jumping
The Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) broke down these alarming figures after the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority released them. While teen male suicides jumped, the overall trend shows that every age group (except those 60+) is feeling the heat.
One sobering detail: male teens accounted for just 30% of SOS helpline calls (and ~27% of e‑mail support).
Stiff Men – a real barrier
- SOS’s senior assistant director, Ms Wong Lai Chun, warned that the “masculine” pressure can push lads into silence.
- With 7 out of 10 suicides in 2018 being male, society’s tormenting expectation that men be stoic is a recipe for despair.
- Ms Wong’s takeaway: “Men and women alike need to know it’s okay to be imperfect. A supportive vibe trumps judgment.”
Anonymous Voices from SOS
“Youths today say they’re very aware of moments when they feel alone and helpless. Yet, many still reckon that suicide is the only escape.” – Ms Wong
Helplines to Remember
- Samaritans of Singapore: 1800‑221‑4444
- Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800‑283‑7019
- Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin): 1800‑353‑5800
- Tinkle Friend: 1800‑274‑4788
- Institute of Mental Health – Mental Health Helpline: 6389‑2222
- Silver Ribbon: 6386‑1928
These numbers are no mere brushstroke – they’re a call to mind that the younger generation is under a hidden pressure. By embracing empathy and tearing down the “tough no‑vulnerability” myth, we can help put a stop to young lives being cut short.
