According to police data, 83 suicide attempts and five deaths were recorded among children aged 7 to 12.
The highest numbers of attempts were reported in northern and southern Poland, while the lowest were recorded in the west and south-west, with the Opole area reporting the fewest cases.
Although the overall number of attempts appears to have stabilised compared with previous years, the number of completed suicides increased from 127 in 2024 to 161 in 2025.
Experts stress the importance of long-term mental health initiatives both in schools and healthcare settings.
Dominik Kuc from the GrowSPACE Foundation said: “Educational programmes need to address mental health over the long term. We must speak openly with young people about challenges, peer violence, digital hygiene, and available support.”
Krystyna Piątkowska, a psychoeducator from GrowSPACE, added that suicide attempts are often the result of prolonged emotional strain and insufficient early support.
“Many children and teenagers today experience chronic stress, loneliness, and difficulty managing emotions, while lacking the tools to articulate what they are going through,” she said.
Those in emotional crisis can contact the 24-hour adult support line at 116 123, or the 24-hour Child and Youth Helpline at 116 111. Emergency services can also be reached via 112.
(mp)
Source: IAR/Polish Police/The Grow SPACE Foundation