Why Do People in Japan Feel Tired in May? Understanding “May Sickness” (Gogatsu-byo)
Have you been living in Japan or started a new job for a little while now? After the long Golden Week holidays, have you noticed your Japanese coworkers seeming unusually tired or low on energy? Or perhaps you yourself feel like “it’s hard to get out of bed in the morning” or “I’m not very motivated to go to work.”
In Japan, these feelings are often referred to as “May Sickness” (Gogatsu-byo) - a very common condition during this time of year.
In this article, we’ll explore why this uniquely Japanese phenomenon happens and share some tips to help foreign workers take care of their mental and physical well-being.
Why Do People Feel Tired in May? The “April Start” Culture
In Japan, both the school year and the business year begin in April. This makes April a time of major change - new workplaces, new rules, and new relationships. It’s when many people push themselves the hardest.
Throughout April, people often overextend themselves without realizing it, building up a significant amount of stress.
Then comes Golden Week, a long holiday in early May. During this break, the tension finally releases.
But when work resumes, that accumulated fatigue hits all at once. This is what we call “May Sickness.”
For foreign workers, the challenge is even greater.
You’re not only adapting to a new job, but also navigating communication in Japanese and adjusting to cultural norms. Feeling more exhausted than those around you is completely natural.
Could It Be May Sickness? Signs from Your Mind and Body
If you’re wondering whether it’s just regular tiredness, watch out for these signs:
- Struggling to get out of bed in the morning
- Difficulty sleeping at night
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Lack of motivation or not wanting to go to work
- Feeling sad or irritable for no clear reason
How to Cope with May Sickness: 4 Practical Tips
There’s no need to blame yourself. May Sickness is often a sign that you worked very hard adapting to a new environment in April. Try easing back into your own rhythm with these approaches:
1. Aim for “60%” - Perfection Isn’t Necessary
Japanese workplaces can feel very detail-oriented, and it may seem like perfection is expected. But in the beginning, doing “60%” is more than enough.
Even just showing up to work is something worth recognizing. Lower the bar for yourself a little.
2. Treat Yourself to Food from Home
When you’re living in a different culture, familiar tastes can be deeply comforting. Take a break from dieting or saving money for a moment - cook your favorite dishes from home or visit a restaurant from your country. Give yourself permission to relax.
3. Get Morning Sunlight
If your routine has been disrupted by the holidays, sunlight can help reset it. Open your curtains as soon as you wake up and let in the morning light. This simple habit helps your body regulate hormones that stabilize your mood.
4. Don’t Keep It to Yourself - Talk to Someone
If things feel overwhelming, try talking to someone. Reach out to family or friends back home, or connect with other foreign workers in Japan. Simply expressing your feelings in your native language can significantly reduce stress.
Support Services Available in Multiple Languages
If you’re really struggling and need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to support services in Japan that offer assistance in multiple languages. Your privacy will be respected.
YORISOI Helpline
- YORISOI Helpline
Offers consultations in English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and more.
This is their website.
- TELL (Tokyo English Life Line)
Provides mental health support in English (phone and chat).
This is their website.
Final Thoughts
Living and working in Japan is a significant challenge. If you’re feeling tired, it may simply be your mind and body asking for rest. There’s no need to rush - take a deep breath, move at your own pace, and find your own way to enjoy life in Japan.
