Day of Life (Inochi no Hi)
OtherWhat Is the Day of Life?
December 1st is the "Day of Life" (Inochi no Hi) in Japan, established by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 2009. It's part of suicide prevention awareness efforts under Japan's Basic Act on Suicide Prevention (enacted in 2006). December — the period leading up to the year-end and New Year holidays — tends to bring elevated mental and emotional stress, which is why this day was created as a time to reflect anew on the importance of life.
The Reality of Suicide in Japan
In Japan, more than 20,000 people die by suicide each year, and suicide is the leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 39 (2023 statistics). Cases tend to rise around the year-end and New Year period, with isolation, financial hardship, overwork, and relationship struggles among the most common underlying factors.
Where to Turn for Help
- Inochi no Denwa (Lifeline): 0570-783-556 (daily, 4 PM–9 PM; on the 10th of each month, available 8 AM to 8 AM the next day)
- Yorisoi Hotline: 0120-279-338 (available 24 hours)
- Mental Health Consultation Unified Line: 0570-064-556 (connects to consultation services in each prefecture)
- SNS counseling: The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's "Kokoro no Mimi" website offers consultations via LINE and chat.
Recognizing the Signs in People Around You
- Take statements like "I want to die" or "I want to disappear" seriously as genuine cries for help.
- Be cautious if someone who has been struggling suddenly seems unusually calm or cheerful — this can sometimes occur after a decision has been made.
- Simply listening can make a huge difference. You don't need to offer solutions — being present and attentive is enough.
The Day of Life is a day to thoughtfully check in on your own mental state, and on the wellbeing of those close to you.