Suicide dropped in this April in Japan, COVID-19 releted?

Discussing COVID-19, we psychiatrists often refer to another lethal issue: suicide.

Suicide is one of the worst cause of death. We have to prevent suicide at 100% rate ideally.

Specialists of psychiatry suggest there are three patterns about COVID-19 related suicide. First, people who took COVID-19, or families with COVID-19 patients may become desperate to commit suicide. Second, medical practitioners as well as workers responsible for management of infection are overworking to become burnout. They may be blamed when failed to manage it. And the third is the risk of financial crisis relevant lockdown. It is proven that crippled economy brings many suicides.

The last is most frequently discussed in Japan. The reason why the Japan government is hesitating to set strict policy against spreading COVID-19 is the fear of economical breakdown. 

The Japan Times: COVID-19 puts the squeeze on Japan's most vulnerable

In reality, suicide rate in Japan was significantly decreased in this April. It was declined by 20% from the previous year. In every year, Japan faces many suicide in April because the fiscal year begins in April in Japan. This year, many workers have to be alone at home. It might lead to reduced stress level of interpersonal communication, according to the media.

It is unsure what is happening. First of all, suicide statistics is not so trustworthy than other official statistics. Many Japanese hate to report their relative's suicide. Especially in this year, police officers might have difficulty to take time for adequate investigation of unexpected death.

Also, victims of suicide is always vulnerable people. A part of them might be dead relevant to COVID-19.

In contrast, it is possible that many people became hypomanic because of this serious situation. It is well known that immediately after a disaster depressive people get recovered temporarily. It is explainable with acute release of adrenergic hormones. In this case, a certain period passes, people's mental health will deteriorate.

Above all, the relationship between COVID-19 pandemic and suicide should be deliberately examined for a longitudinal view.