Untangling the Sea of Trees: An Architectural Analysis of the Impact of the Built Environment on Suicide Rates in Japan

Abstract

Resulting in over 30,000 mortalities every year, suicide ranks as the number one cause of death for young adults in Japan. Extreme stress at work, Stigma surrounding mental health, and congested urban conditions cause hundreds to see the Aokigahara Suicide Forest as their only option. With its increased notoriety as the second most visited suicide location in the world, how can we utilize biophilic design, traditional Japanese construction methods, and Zen Buddhist philosophies to reduce work stress, and prevent depression, and help individuals untangle the sea of trees?