Suicide Remains Among Top 10 Causes of Death; Debt from Scams Leads to Most Suicides in 45-64 Age Group

(CNA, Taipei, June 22) -- Suicide remains the 10th leading cause of death in Taiwan, the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) announced today. The 45 to 64 age group has the highest number of suicides due to debt issues. The MOHW has contacted the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) to collaborate on fraud prevention, aiming for financial institutions to assist individuals in accessing or being referred to mental health resources.

The MOHW's Department of Health Statistics released the top 10 leading causes of death for 2025 today. "Suicide," which returned to the top 10 list in 2024, remains in 10th place. In 2025, there were 3,951 suicides, with a mortality rate of 16.9 per 100,000 population. This represents a decrease of 111 deaths (a 2.7% reduction in number) and a 2.5% decrease in mortality rate compared to 2024.

However, it is noteworthy that the number of deaths in the 15-24, 25-44, and over 65 age groups decreased in 2025 compared to 2024. The 0-14 and 45-64 age groups saw a slight increase compared to the previous year.

Chen Po-hsi, Director-General of the MOHW's Mental Health Administration, stated that mental health support and suicide prevention measures are continuously being strengthened for different age groups. The suicide mortality rate for young people aged 15-24 shows a downward trend. Suicides among the elderly aged 65 and above have decreased for three consecutive years, and the rate of depression screening for seniors continues to rise.

Regarding the threat of scams and debt pressure to public mental health, Chen Po-hsi indicated that the 45-64 age group has the highest suicide rate due to debt issues. Although it has decreased in 2025 compared to 2024, it still accounts for over 5% of all suicide causes. Following several significant related social incidents, the MOHW began establishing communication channels with the FSC to discuss how the financial system can assist in referring individuals in need.

Chen Po-hsi explained that among debt-related issues, the primary impact and stress stem from being a victim of scams. The sudden loss of a large sum of money can easily become the last straw that breaks the camel's back. Currently, financial institution employees are being informed about available mental health resources and referral channels. Posters and information are also being displayed in bank branches and other business locations to facilitate public access to help resources.

"Suicide prevention requires cross-ministerial collaboration and the participation of the entire society," Chen Po-hsi emphasized. In addition to collaborating with the Ministry of Education to strengthen campus support systems, he urged the public to act as gatekeepers, implementing the "Ask, Listen, Refer" approach to proactively care for friends and family, and to help those in need receive assistance as early as possible. (Editor: Chen Ching-fang) 20250622

Cherish life. Suicide cannot solve problems. There is always a way out. If you need counseling or related assistance, please call the MOHW hotline "1925", the Life Line Association hotline "1995", or the "1980" hotline of the Ministry of Education's counseling service.

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