View Health:Mental Health
For the majority of Western women, it is quite natural that emotional problems surface at some point during their lives here. The problems are similar to those for which they would seek help in their own countries: relationship issues, stress, childhood-related issues, and difficulties at work, as well as problems more specific to living in Japan: loneliness, culture shock, or homesickness.
Culture shock often hits at around the three- to six-month period, when the ‘honeymoon’ feelings slowly disappear and the reality of everyday life in Japan becomes apparent. Don’t be surprised if this is accompanied by ‘I-Hate-Japan Days’ that turn into weeks or even months. There then follows what for some is a difficult period of readjustment, resulting in a more realistic understanding and attitude towards life in Japan. The whole process can come and go in cycles, but being aware of this helps.
Do keep in touch with friends and family from home, however, not to the point where you neglect to make new friendships in Japan. Go out, start new activities, join groups, and make friends with people in your neighbourhood as well as those you work with.
My general guideline is that if feeling stressed, unhappy, or anxious starts to feel normal, then get help. In Japan, friends are sometimes too busy to notice that you are in trouble, schedules are too hectic, therapy seems expensive (generally about ¥10,000 per hour, although some operate on a sliding scale), and, if you’re British, seeking psychiatric help may make you feel like you’re just one step away from being locked up. But don’ t let these things put you off; a therapist can help you clearly identify your problems and develop strategies to deal with them.
If you plan on living here for more than a year, taking care of yourself will greatly help with your ability to deal with emotional and psychological issues. There are several strategies that other foreign women in Japan use to cope with their problems, without seeking psychotherapy. These include making their home environment a more pleasant place to be, pampering themselves occasionally, as well as making an effort to meet new people and form close friendships.
Finally, if you do seek professional help, a word of warning. There is nothing in Japan that regulates foreigners claiming to be psychotherapists and nothing to check that they are adhering to any code of conduct. Check out a therapist’s credentials carefully. If you’ re not sure what you’re looking for, then contact International Mental Health Providers Japan, or get recommendations from friends.