Mental Health Awareness & Support

Mental health is every bit as important for our well-being as physical health. Yet, there can be unfortunate stigmas, shame and misunderstandings regarding the issue. This is true everywhere but especially in Japan, and it can affect Japanese and non-Japanese residents alike.

In Japan, people who suffer from mental health issues are often stigmatized as weak or not trying hard enough to overcome their challenges. Many see it as solely an individual failing, and not a matter of health or the effects of unhealthy school or work environments.

Growing help against mental health problems

While Japan’s suicide rate has been on a downward trend, suicide is still the leading cause of death for the 15-39 age demographic. Both school bullying and workplace harassment are issues. Workplace harassment has a particular Japanese English phrase, called “power harassment,” and there have also been law revisions in Japan to address it.

Some organizations have also taken steps to spread awareness. An organization called →  Silver Ribbon, dedicated to helping those with mental health issues, has requested that Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology increase mental health education efforts in public schools. While high schools have reinstated mental health education, Silver Ribbon has stressed the need for elementary and middle school courses for earlier treatment and prevention.

Japan’s mental health system differs from many other countries

Foreign residents may deal with the same issues and also with unique struggles adjusting to life in Japan. Besides the language barrier, navigating a different health system can be a challenge. Mental health specialist Ko Ukawa discusses how foreign patients can have misunderstandings regarding the health care system. These include determining what kind of doctors to see, as well as knowing how to fill prescriptions properly.

Familiarity with the system can be vital to know what to look for and expect from existing mental health services in Japan. For example, while psychiatry appointments in which one can get short consultations and medications are covered by health insurance, counseling sessions are not. There is also no licensing system for clinical psychologists in Japan.

This makes it incredibly important for foreign residents unfamiliar with Japanese mental health care to do their due diligence. Check carefully about a particular clinic or specialist’s background and qualifications, and make sure they have the background to address your particular issue.

Mental health services to be aware of

There are reputable mental health organizations that help the foreign community as well as Japanese resources for those who speak the language. The most well-known is perhaps →  TELL which has been around since 1973. TELL is a nonprofit organization that offers a variety of services, including counseling.

Foreign residents may feel more comfortable with support in their own language from someone who better understands cultural differences. However, there are some Japanese resources available. The Ministry of Health Labor and Welfare has its own website for mental health,→  Minna no Mental Health Comprehensive Site. It posts updated information about events and other topics, and has pamphlets with information about services offered. Local governments have various kinds of support centers for mental health. There is also support for other life problems that may cause distress, such as family, financial and legal problems.

Education and awareness crucial to building a supportive society

There are, though the number is still limited, events to help raise mental health awareness amongst both English and Japanese speakers in Japan. TELL has events and volunteer opportunities for people to get involved, for example. Such efforts can help people better understand mental health and foster a sense of community.

However, the best ways to truly build awareness are education and empathy. In addition to the stigma, mental health issues are often misunderstood. Educational courses such as those requested by Silver Ribbon are helpful. Taking the time and effort to educate yourself is equally important. Having a good general knowledge of mental health is key not only in getting appropriate treatment for yourself but also in offering the support and patience necessary for others who are struggling. 

Please do reach out to the many local organizations available.