Pandemic And A Surge In Suicide Behind The Appointment Of Japan's 'lonely Minister'

Photo illustration (Alva Pratt / Unsplash)

JAKARTA - The problem of loneliness in Japan is getting worse following the pandemic which demands that the country carry out lockdowns and isolation of its citizens. The government took serious steps, appointing Regional Revitalization Minister Tetsushi Sakamoto to become the 'Minister of Loneliness'.

Sakamoto has been the Minister of Loneliness for a while. He will be in charge of dealing with loneliness and isolation in the Land of the Rising Sun. Throughout the pandemic, these two problems have become increasingly worrying.

Photo illustration (Liam Burnett / Unsplash)

Reported by Nikkei Asia, Tuesday, February 16, suicide cases in Japan continued to increase during 2020. Women and teenagers were the group with the most significant increase.

"Women suffer more from isolation (than men). And the number of suicides is on an increasing trend. I hope you will identify the problem and promote policy measures in a comprehensive manner," Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga told Sakamoto at a meeting.

Suicide rate in Japan

Referring to the latest data, the suicide rate of women in Japan reached 6,976, which if a percentage reached 14.5 percent. This figure is the highest in five years.

Meanwhile, male suicides fell to 13,943 people in the eleven consecutive years. After his appointment, Sakamoto plans to immediately hold an emergency forum at the end of February.

Tetsushi Sakamoto (Source: Commons Wikimedia)

In that forum Sakamoto will bring in experts to discuss what steps need to be taken to prevent loneliness and minimize the negative effects of isolation. Sakamoto is also determined to improve human relations in Japan.

Why woman?

The researchers said that the female employment sector, mostly in the service and retail sectors, made them more vulnerable to losing their jobs due to the pandemic. On the other hand, the women also carry a greater burden in housework and child care.

The pandemic is forcing women to spend more time at home. These things make their mental state worse. Referring to the same data, the suicide rate began to surge in July. Previously, in the first half of 2020, the figure was actually much lower.

The impact of the pandemic has clearly increased that percentage. October was the worst of all, making it the month with the highest monthly total cases: 2,153 people. Sakamoto's appointment was accompanied by statements from officials at the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.

He said he would support each other's economy and daily life. The government will also expand consulting services and introduce support organizations for people in need.

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