Immediately after World War II, the suicide rate in Japan rose tremendously. Today much lower overall rates are found. In studying rates, one important trend can be noted, namely that suicides rates are much higher in the elderly. Physical diseases seem to be of paramount importance in explaining suicidal behaviour in the elderly. Developments in the 1960s & 70s may have led to material satisfaction, but simultaneously to spiritual poverty, loneliness & depression, especially in males. (0 refs.)