Short-Term Preliminary Evaluation of Suicide Following the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake in Japan Using Time Series Analysis

<b></b> <i>Background</i>: The impact of earthquakes on mental health is profound. <i>Aim</i>: This study examines the short-term impact of the Noto Peninsula earthquake (magnitude 7.6) in Japan in January 2024 on the number of suicides and investigates the existence of the <i>pulling together effect</i> or <i>honeymoon phase</i> in suicide trends. <i>Method</i>: Suicide data from disaster-affected areas in Ishikawa Prefecture from January 2017 to June 2024 were analyzed using Poisson regression and prophet models. <i>Results</i>: Both models identified fewer suicides than predicted for 3 consecutive months (March-May 2024). This trend was observed even when the affected areas were subdivided into multiple regions. <i>Limitations</i>: Economic factors and data on suicide attempts or mental disorders were not included in the analysis. <i>Conclusion</i>: This study provides evidence supporting the pulling together effect or honeymoon phase, suggesting that increased community support following a disaster temporarily reduces suicide risk.