Number of suicides among young people increases

The number of young people committing suicide has increased over the past ten years, reports 113 Suicide Prevention. “They often lack a sense of belonging”, says researcher Jolien Dopmeijer.

At first glance, it looks like an innocent class photo. In reality, it shows 26 young people who lost their lives to suicide. This striking image and the stories of survivors are part of the ‘Lessons for Life’ campaign by 113 Suicide Prevention.

According to new data from this organization, the number of suicides among young people under 30 has risen. In 2016, 223 young people died by suicide, and in 2025, this number increased to 290.

Jolien Dopmeijer, a researcher at the Trimbos Institute and Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, has been working on student mental health for years. “All young people are looking for belonging; it’s part of their developmental phase into young adulthood. We know from research by 113 that many young people who commit suicide often experience a lack of such a sense of connection and had pre-existing mental health issues.”

What do we know about suicide among students?

“We don’t have precise figures for students. We only know that suicide is the leading cause of death among young people, and the new data shows that the number of suicides among them has increased.”

A significant portion of higher education students struggles with mental health issues, according to previous research by the Trimbos Institute, RIVM, and GGD GHOR Netherlands: more than eighty percent of students experience anxiety or depressive feelings, and about a quarter feel ‘occasionally or more often’ tired of life.

Dopmeijer: “It’s a complex issue. Just because someone occasionally wishes they were dead doesn’t automatically mean that person has concrete suicide plans. However, when such feelings develop further, they can eventually lead to suicide.”

Can such a campaign help?

“Yes, it can certainly help. Young people need social support and understanding, and it’s good to create openness. A campaign like this can help normalize feelings of uncertainty and sadness so that young people don’t feel alone.”

“Students are vulnerable in many ways. They are in a phase of development, and finding a sense of belonging or feeling ‘at home’ can be a significant challenge. When that doesn’t happen, some unfortunately come to the conclusion that they want to step out of life. However, there is much that can be done within the education system to support students.”

How can this be done?

“It’s important for educational institutions to create an environment where students can be themselves. This increases their sense of belonging and connection. Furthermore, institutions should invest in building relationships with students so they feel truly seen and heard.”