Mental Healthcare in Japan is Behind the Times
Mental health is shaped by more than individual circumstances. The culture we grow up in, the expectations placed on us, and the way society responds to stress all influence how people experience and talk about mental health.
In this episode, guest co-host Scoey and I discussed some of the cultural differences we've noticed while living in Japan, from workplace pressure and social expectations to the challenges surrounding mental healthcare and asking for help.
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Social Expectations and Everyday Pressure
One of the first topics we explored was the difference between tatemae and honne—the distinction between the public face people present and their true feelings.
While these concepts exist everywhere to some degree, they can play a particularly visible role in Japanese society. We also talked about our own experiences in different parts of Japan and how regional differences sometimes influence the way people communicate and express themselves.
Understanding those social expectations can help explain why some people find it difficult to openly discuss stress or personal struggles.
Work Culture and Mental Health
Workplace culture was another major part of our conversation.
Scoey shared his experiences working in Japan's construction industry and the pressures that came with increasing responsibility over the years. Like many demanding professions, the stress didn't remain confined to the workplace—it eventually affected other parts of life as well.
We also discussed Japan's long-standing reputation for long working hours and the importance of recognizing when work begins to affect physical and mental health.
Mental Healthcare in Japan
Although awareness of mental health has improved in recent years, many people still hesitate to seek professional support.
Part of that hesitation comes from the stigma that can still surround mental illness, while another part comes from cultural expectations that encourage perseverance and endurance. Concepts such as gaman and kuuki o yomu can promote resilience and consideration for others, but they can also make it more difficult for some people to express when they're struggling.
Understanding those cultural influences helps explain why conversations about mental health can look different in Japan than they do in many Western countries.
Managing Stress Over the Long Term
Everyone experiences stress differently, which means there isn't a single solution that works for everyone.
We finished the conversation by sharing some of the habits that have helped us personally over the years. For me, regular weight training and other healthy routines have become an important part of maintaining both my physical and mental well-being. Scoey talked about the role that creative hobbies such as music and drawing have played in helping him manage stress.
Living in Japan has reminded both of us that taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is something that benefits everyone, regardless of where they live.
If you've lived in Japan—or another country with a very different work or social culture—I’d love to hear about your experience. What habits have helped you manage stress while living abroad?