Suicide methods among adolescents and adults in Korea, 1997–2021: an issue of accessibility and awareness

The decline in pesticide-related suicides demonstrates the effectiveness of paraquat restrictions. In contrast, the dramatic rise in suicides involving gases and vapours suggests the influence of media reporting. The increase in drug-related suicides may be attributed to greater availability and access to psychiatric medications. The high rate of suicides by falls among adolescents likely reflects the higher impulsivity of this age group. In addition, the rise in adolescent suicides during the COVID-19 pandemic indicates the adverse mental health effects of reduced peer interactions and school engagement.