From Truancy to Belonging: Why Safe Spaces Matter for Youth Well-Being By Ippei Takemura Copyright © 2026 IPS-Inter Press Service.

https://www.ipsnews.net/2026/03/from-truancy-to-belonging-why-safe-spaces-matter-for-youth-well-being/ MIYAGI PREFECTURE, Japan, Mar 6 2026 (IPS) - I recently came across a statistic that stopped me in my tracks. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Japan has the highest suicide rate among the G7 countries. Even more alarming, suicide is the leading cause of death among people in their teens and twenties. Among elementary, junior high, and high school students, the most common factors linked to suicide are “school-related issues,” including academic pressure and difficulties with peer relationships. Copyright © 2026 IPS-Inter Press Service.