Work

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

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: : Background: The impact of earthquakes on mental health is profound. Aim: 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 pulling together effect or honeymoon phase in suicide trends. Method: Suicide data from disaster-affected areas in Ishikawa Prefecture from January 2017 to June 2024 were analyzed using Poisson regression and prophet models. Results: 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. Limitations: Economic factors and data on suicide attempts or mental disorders were not included in the analysis. Conclusion: This study provides evidence supporting the pulling together effect or honeymoon phase, suggesting that increased community support following a disaster temporarily reduces suicide risk.

Source: Crisis

DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a001003

Author: Takahiro Arai

Institutions: Tama University, Keio University

Language: English

Topic: Suicide and Self-Harm Studies

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Japan Society for the Promotion of Science