Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun speaking while presiding over the Suicide Prevention Policy Committee meeting held at the Government Seoul Office on the 30th. (Photo by Yonhap News)
[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun stated on the 30th, "As suicides among women in their 20s and 30s and students have recently increased significantly, we will establish a thorough psychological safety net."
Prime Minister Chung made these remarks while presiding over the '3rd Suicide Prevention Policy Committee' at the Government Seoul Office on the same day.
He explained, "In preparation for the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, we held the committee meeting six months after the one in May to discuss strengthened measures."
The government has segmented the suicide risk due to COVID-19 into three levels: ▲general public ▲vulnerable groups ▲high-risk groups, and has prepared tailored measures accordingly.
Prime Minister Chung said, "We must further strengthen our response efforts to prevent the suicide rate among the younger generation, who are sensitively affected by COVID-19, from becoming entrenched," adding, "We will establish a dense psychological safety net for women in their 20s and 30s and reinforce policies to ensure they receive necessary help promptly."
He continued, "For high-risk groups such as suicide attempters, the state or society will intervene more actively," and stated, "We will provide continuous counseling and support, expand dedicated suicide prevention personnel, and systematize the management of suicide means such as harmful chemicals."
Additionally, plans include ▲strengthening life-respecting education at home and school ▲expanding expert counseling and treatment cost support for students in mental health crises ▲minimizing gaps in essential care services for socially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and disabled.
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