Government Prepares Measures Against 'Corona Blue'... Prime Minister Kim: "No One Left Behind Among Exhausted Citizens"

4th Suicide Prevention Policy Committee

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Son Seon-hee] The government announced on the 9th that it has prepared a 'Post-COVID-19 Suicide Prevention Strengthening Plan' to prevent psychological anxiety caused by the COVID-19 crisis and fatigue from social distancing from erupting into extreme choices.

Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum chaired the Suicide Prevention Policy Committee at the Government Seoul Office on the 9th and stated, "We will strengthen management of areas with frequent suicide methods and enhance suicide prevention infrastructure."

According to the government, the provisional number of annual suicide deaths last year was 12,018, a decrease of 781 compared to the previous year. However, the COVID-19 National Mental Health Survey showed an increase in depression (from 2.34 in 2018 to 5.7 points in March 2021).

In response, the government has taken measures to prevent suicide. As cases of death using harmful chemicals have recently increased, the government will strengthen planned inspections targeting sales outlets and monitoring through cyber surveillance teams to block illegal distribution. In particular, it announced that it is considering measures to restrict sales and distribution targeting adolescents.

Furthermore, the government will strengthen psychological support for the entire population and solidify the depression screening system. Among patients using primary medical institutions, high-risk groups with a high risk of suicide will be proactively identified and provided with follow-up care through specialized personnel such as mental health welfare centers and psychiatrists. Emotional support will be especially strengthened for women in their 20s and 30s, and related suicide prevention campaigns will also be conducted.

Prime Minister Kim said, "I am well aware that everyone is exhausted due to the prolonged unprecedented disaster situation," and urged, "All the more, please look around so that no one is left out and everyone can return to daily life together."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.