In 2024, there were 441 suicide deaths in Singapore, a slight increase of 1.6% compared to 2023. However, while suicide numbers for most age groups generally declined, the number for those aged 30 to 39 rose sharply against the trend, surging by 50% compared to 2023 and reaching 99 people; this is also at least 20 more than any other age group, drawing public concern.
Lianhe Zaobao reported on the 28th that, according to the latest statistics from the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS), the preliminarily reported number of suicide deaths for 2024 is 314, but there is a significant gap with the final verified total of 441—a difference of more than 40%.
The latest data shows that suicide has become the second leading cause of death for adults aged 30 to 39. SOS points out that adults at this stage of life often face complex pressures and psychosocial burdens, including family issues, work stress, and social isolation.
As for young people aged 10 to 29, suicide has long been the number one cause of death. The stress faced by youths mainly comes from family, academic, and interpersonal relationship issues.
For seniors aged 60 and above, the number of suicide deaths also remains relatively high. The main difficulties faced by this group continue to be declining health, mobility issues, and loneliness caused by social isolation.
The Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority only began releasing preliminary suicide death data from 2023. The final tally of suicide deaths for each year is published in a report released the following year. According to preliminary data, Singapore had 256 suicide deaths in 2025. However, the actual final number may differ significantly.
● The Majority of Suicide Victims Are Male
In 2024, 65.8% of suicide victims were male. This trend is especially pronounced among seniors aged 60 and above, where the number of male suicide victims was three times that of females.
Research shows that men are more prone to social isolation and are less likely to seek help when emotionally distressed. Instead, they are more inclined to resolve their issues through suicide. In contrast, women show a greater tendency toward help-seeking.