YOUTH suicides could rise as more school dropouts find it impossible to get work because of the ailing economy, a senior social worker has warned.
Director of Baptist Oi Kwan Social Service, Mary Leung Tien-wei, said a combination of factors, including unemployment, drug abuse and family problems could push youth suicide rates up.
She fears school dropouts who have just finished nine years' compulsory education could be most at risk.
'I'm worried that more young people may destroy themselves when they are not ready for the setbacks and frustration,' said Ms Leung, who is also vice-chairwoman of the Society for Truth and Light.
'According to statistics, the youth suicide rate in Hong Kong is low compared to North America.
'It may go up with the present trend in drug abuse, broken families, mental problems and unemployment,' she told a workshop on youth suicide yesterday organised by the provisional Wan Chai District Board.
