At first glance, it looks like an ordinary class photo. In reality, it shows 26 young people who lost their lives to suicide. This striking image, along with stories from surviving relatives, is part of the campaign Lessons for Life by 113 Suicide Prevention.

New figures from the organization show that the number of suicides among people under 30 has risen. In 2016, 223 young people died by suicide; by 2025, that number had increased to 290.

Researcher Jolien Dopmeijer, who works at the Trimbos Institute and Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, has been studying student mental health for years. “All young people are searching for a sense of belonging—it’s part of their developmental phase toward young adulthood. Research by 113 shows that many young people who die by suicide often experience a lack of connectedness and were already dealing with mental health problems.”

What do we know about suicide among students?

“We don’t have precise figures specifically for students. What we do know is that suicide is the leading cause of death among young people, and the new data show that the number of suicides in this group has increased.”

Previous research by the Trimbos Institute, the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), and GGD GHOR Netherlands found that a significant share of higher education students struggle with mental health issues: more than 80 percent experience anxiety or depressive feelings at times, and about a quarter feel ‘occasionally or more often’ tired of life.

Dopmeijer: “It’s a complex issue. Having occasional thoughts about not wanting to be alive does not automatically mean someone has plans to take their own life. But when those feelings intensify and persist, they can ultimately lead to suicide.”

Can a campaign like this help?

“It certainly can. Young people need social support and understanding, and it’s important to create openness. Such a campaign can help normalize feelings of insecurity and sadness, so young people don’t feel alone.”

“Students are vulnerable in many ways. They are in the midst of personal development, and finding a sense of belonging or feeling at home can be a major challenge. When that doesn’t happen, some unfortunately come to the conclusion that they want to end their lives. But there is a lot that educational institutions can do to support students.”

In what way?

“It’s important for educational institutions to create an environment where people are free to be who they are. That strengthens feelings of belonging and connectedness. Institutions should also invest in building relationships with students, so they truly feel seen and heard.”

(If you are thinking about suicide: talking helps and can be done anonymously. Chat via 113.nl or call 113 free of charge.)