Japan’s May blues (“Gogatsubyo”)

Although it literally means “May disease” in Japanese, Gogatsubyo is not an actual disease. Typically, fiscal year and school year starts in April in Japan, so spring is a time for fresh start for many people. Gogatsubyo is a mental symptom caused by maladjustment to new environments in spring, and it is commonly seen among people starting in a new environment like new company or new school. It is called “May disease” because the depression-like symptom is commonly seen in May, especially after the Golden Week.

For preventing gogatsubyo, it is most important not to get overstressed. Talking to your friends is a good way to release stress, for example.