Mental Health

Japan has a highly developed healthcare system, although mental healthcare services remain some way below those for physical health. Things have begun to improve in recent years, but public mental health provision is still below levels in the US and many European countries. There is still a stigma around discussing mental health issues in Japan, as well as a tendency to rely more on medication over other therapeutic treatment.  Here is a brief overview of what to expect in terms of mental healthcare in Japan.  Public Mental Healthcare Services in Japan  Mental healthcare through the Japanese public healthcare system is limited. If you experience mental health issues, you can usually see a psychiatrist, although you will need a referral from your general doctor in most cases. Psychiatrists are widespread in Japan, with most belonging to the Japanese Society of Psychiatry and Neurology.  Psychiatrists in Japan can make diagnoses and prescribe medication. Some working in the public health system may be qualified in specialist areas, for example addictions or eating disorders. However, waiting lists in the public sector can be long and most practitioners will deliver their services in Japanese.  Services such as psychotherapy and counselling remain limited within Japanese public…