TOKYO — When requested about efforts to stop suicide amongst kids, which tends to improve after summer time break, Education Minister Toshiko Abe shared her expertise of dropping a classmate who took their very own life when she was little.
Abe spoke throughout a Sept. 5 press convention held after a Cabinet assembly. Regarding suicide prevention efforts by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Abe defined, “Children should never have to take their own lives. We will continue to work closely with other government agencies and do everything we can to prevent suicide.”
She then instantly choked up. With a trembling voice, she stated by tears, “I’m sorry. A classmate of mine in elementary school died by suicide, so I personally experienced during elementary school something that should have never happened.”
When reporters requested for extra particulars, Abe stated, “I would prefer not to answer that here,” and declined to remark additional.
In a message launched in August, Abe urged people not to maintain their struggles to themselves. She suggested, “Some of you may be feeling anxious or troubled about relationships with friends you haven’t seen for a while, or about your future, schoolwork or issues at home. Don’t take it all on yourself. Please try sharing how you feel with anyone, like your family, friends, teachers or a school counselor.”
(Japanese unique by Sahomi Nishimoto, Tokyo City News Department)