Levels and predictors of suicide stigma and suicide literacy in Japan

Abstract Existing evidence suggests that suicide stigma and suicide literacy may influence outcomes for people experiencing suicidal thoughts. The current study investigated suicide stigma and suicide literacy in a Japanese community sample (N ​= ​217), with comparison to published data and evaluation of correlates of suicide stigma and literacy. Japanese participants had significantly higher levels of suicide stigma and lower levels of suicide literacy than those in Australia and Germany. Greater self-reliance was associated with increased stigma. Younger age, less education, greater suicide exposure and greater social support were associated with increased suicide literacy. Implications for suicide prevention activities in Japan are discussed.