Economic Troubles and Violent Explosions: China’s Struggle with Mental Health

In a harrowing incident, a former student launched a knife attack at Wuxi Vocational School of Arts and Technology in Jiangsu, China, killing eight people and injuring 17 more. The 21-year-old suspect was captured at the scene and admitted that the attack was motivated by frustration over academic and financial setbacks.

On the same day, a 62-year-old man in Zhuhai was charged after plowing his car into a crowd, resulting in 35 deaths and 43 injuries. Authorities attributed his violent behavior to dissatisfaction with the divorce settlement. These incidents highlight growing concerns about economic distress and mental health problems in China.

The attacks, albeit heavily censored, sparked online debate about the increasing pressures facing young people as China’s economy slows. Experts emphasize the urgent need for effective mental health support and clear pathways for addressing complaints to prevent indiscriminate social violence.

(With input from institutions.)