Rising teen suicides demands urgent, proactive response

Addressing root causes

HKU's Yip suggests we go beyond identifying high-risk students and providing them with assistance. Society should address the root causes of youth anguish to prevent students' suicidal tendencies. "Our approach is akin to continuously sweeping water from a leaking living room instead of fixing the source of the leak," says Yip.

Yip emphasizes that the high suicide rate is a warning and a reflection of society as a whole. It compels us to introspect about why students reach such desperation to end their life, and what causes such profound unhappiness? Society must promptly take action to instill hope in young people, says Yip. Corrective actions can reduce stress in schools, create more opportunities for students with lower academic results, and offer life and emotional growth counseling.

Parents and teachers need coaching about teen stress and early suicide detection. Within families, parents should offer effective care, provide high-quality companionship, avoid harsh criticism, and learn better ways to interact with teenagers.

Yip explains that society needs to review its conventional measures of success and embrace a more inclusive and flexible educational philosophy. Redefining success, prioritizing holistic development and joyful learning for students are crucial. Success should not be limited to degrees, grades, or high-paying jobs, at the expense of the well-being of students. Although this transformation takes time, it is vital to begin now, he says.

Contact the writer at oasishu@chinadailyhk.com