Self-harm surges among Estonia's youth despite falling injury rates

Injury cases in Estonia have shown a mixed trend in recent years. While overall numbers have declined, intentional self-harm has risen sharply, especially among younger age groups. Official figures for 2025 highlight both progress and growing concerns. In 2025, Estonia recorded over 2,100 injury cases involving intentional self-harm. This marks a 38 percent increase from 2016. The rise has been most pronounced among children and young adults.

Girls accounted for 79 percent of intentional self-harm cases in the 5-14 age group. Among those aged 15-24, they made up 65 percent of such cases. Alcohol played a significant role, with 53 percent of male cases and 29 percent of female cases linked to its consumption.

Despite this, the total number of injury cases fell by 11 percent over the past decade. In 2025 alone, injuries dropped by 7 percent compared to the previous year. Falls remained the leading cause, responsible for 42 percent of all injuries. The number of suicides stayed stable, with 179 cases recorded last year. The data shows a clear rise in intentional self-harm, particularly among young people. At the same time, overall injury rates continue to decline. Falls remain the most common cause of harm, while suicide numbers have not changed significantly.