From Malay Mail · · 1m 10s
Argentina's suicide crisis sparks urgent mental health debate
Argentina's youth suicide rates surge 57.6% since 2017, prompting protests and prevention efforts.
In brief
Argentina's youth suicide rates surge 57.6% since 2017, prompting protests and prevention efforts. Argentina's suicide rates among 15-34 year olds have risen 57.6% since 2017, triggering public awareness campaigns and bridge safety measures. Originally reported by Malay Mail.
Historically high suicide rates
Suicide has become the leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 34 in Argentina.
“Suicide is currently the leading cause of death among young people aged 15 to 34 in the South American country”
57.6% surge since 2017
Argentina recorded a 57.6 percent increase in suicide rates since 2017, with a 22.6 percent rise from the previous year.
“Last year, the OPC recorded a 57.6 percent increase in suicide since 2017, and a 22.6 percent increase since the year before”
Public protests
Bereaved relatives and mental health specialists organized protests in Buenos Aires to raise awareness about suicide.
“The publication of the latest data prompted dozens of bereaved relatives to protest in Buenos Aires over the weekend”
Family perspectives
Graciela Salazar, whose daughter took her own life in 2023, stated suicide awareness is prevention.
“Graciela Salazar, whose daughter took her own life in 2023, told AFP: 'Suicide has multiple causes'”
Social factors
The Argentine Association of Mental Health cited job losses, economic insecurity and debt as key contributors to suicide.
“The Argentine Association of Mental Health (AASM) also voiced concern over 'a serious public health and social situation'”
Bridge safety measures
Corrientes province approved a resolution to install barriers, lighting and emergency phones on high-risk bridges.
“Argentina’s northeastern Corrientes province recently approved a resolution urging the government to take measures to prevent suicide on a bridge”
341 lives saved
The Angels of the Bridge organization has rescued 341 lives since 2023 through 24-hour volunteer presence.
“Since 2023, the Angels of the Bridge organisation has ensured that volunteers are present at the site 24 hours a day”
The main idea
Argentina's suicide rates among 15-34 year olds have risen 57.6% since 2017, triggering public awareness campaigns and bridge safety measures.
