‘Minister of Loneliness’ Hopes to Reduce Suicides in Japan
Unconventional Approach Aims to Stem the Rise in Suicides
In Japan, where coronavirus-related suicides are increasing, Prime Minister Suga named ‘Minister of Loneliness’ Tetsushi Sakamoto, who acted as Regional Minister.
Social life has ground to a stop in Japan’s battle against the coronavirus, leaving the people to feel constantly depressed and lonely.
The rise in suicides has occurred in the world. Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has designated Tetsushi Sakamoto, Minister of Regional Development, as Minister liable for the concerns of the lone people.
Sakamoto claimed in his first speech about his current assignment, “I was advised by Prime Minister Suga to examine the problem and to bring out a holistic approach in cooperation with the ministry in question. I plan to carry out programs aimed at avoiding social isolation and protecting people’s relations.”
Sakamoto also addressed his intention to organize an emergency conference by the end of February and to welcome and listen to others who have helped many people cope with mental health problems, in particular depression and exclusion. Consultations will also be held on support programs, and will also be accompanied by Suga.
The Ministry of Health of Japan has confirmed that the rate of suicide, which has been decreasing in Japan for 10 years as part of strenuous contributions, has begun to increase again for the first time since the end of 2020. In Japan, where 20,919 people committed suicide in 2020, the rise in female and youth suicides is projected to be due to financial hardships exacerbated by the outbreak.
A 70 Percent Rise in The Women Suicide Rate.
Suga has previously reported that about 880 Japanese women committed suicide in October 2020, which is 70% more than the same time last year.
Michiko Ueda, a suicide researcher, said “There are many women who are not married. They have managed to live their own life, work, and survive but generally have no stable jobs. So, they have financial and social issues in harsh times.”
Japan ranks 121 among 153 countries in the 2020 Gender Equity Survey issued by the World Economic Forum (WEF).
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