Japan: The Age Of Social Withdrawal | 101 East

Kenji Yamase spends his days in his bedroom.
The 54-year-old has been a "hikikomori" all of his adult life. The term describes Japanese who rarely interact with society beyond their family.
"It's a sense or feeling that you shouldn't be here. Even if you are here, you feel like you aren't yourself," Kenji says.
Japan is home to more than one million hikikomori, according to recent government surveys. Many of them are over the age of 40 and rely heavily on their elderly parents.
Kenji lives with his 88-year-old mother. "Year by year, I can feel that she's deteriorating ... I worry about her, but I don't know what to do, so I feel very bad," he says. "I feel sad thinking about when she's gone."
An increasing number of school students are also choosing to shun the outside world. Known as "futoko", these children blame a rigid education system, bullying and strict parenting for their social withdrawal. It has led to NGOs setting up education centres across the country as an alternative to Japan's strict schools.
Umi Maekita, who runs Nemonet Free School, says most children who attend these centres eventually return to the mainstream education system. He says early intervention can prevent a lifetime of isolation.
"Telling them to go back to work or go back to school straight away is not the way," he says.
101 East meets the young and old who feel lost in Japan.
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[@FaeiryneFaun]

"Tekushi says he wants to be filmed so there's proof of his existence" I definitely teared up

[@levibeebe9100]

You weren't the only one tearing up

[@MrKubben90]

lol you guys arent use to anything. i use to live his life and its a choice.

[@celticwarrior777]

ya thats so sad

[@tomservo5007]

filmed or not filmed, it doesn't matter. In a few generations, no one will know about you nor remember you.

[@damienholland8103]

@@tomservo5007 That's right.

[@ferdowsurasif]

"The school counselor told me it was my fault I got bullied" . This one sentence says so much about human society.

[@O1OO1O1]

Yeah, there's a big misconception that seeking help results in help. It can, but it's not always the quick fix, comfortable path people suggest it is.

[@wendytwteee]

That line just broke my heart

[@fareehaxoxo8568]

@@O1OO1O1 Well we need to seek help from right person

[@O1OO1O1]

@@fareehaxoxo8568 Easier said than done. For many, bad experiences from seeking help can actually deter them from trying again. And finding the "right" person comes with it's own set of challenges. I'm not saying it isn't worthwhile to still do, just acknowledging an often unacknowledged issue. Usually the line of "seek help" or "they should get help" comes from people who've never tried to do it, have lots of means to do it, or have only had reasonable to good experiences doing it.

[@gayled3059]

Really? I think it says a lot about that counselor! He/she shouldn't have been one. How is it ever a person's fault they get bullied??

[@postcodeox278]

He can't get a job because he doesn't have experience and can't get experience because he can't get a job. Sounds Familiar

[@MasouShizuka]

Ah yes. Circular logic.

[@postcodeox278]

@@MasouShizuka So you're saying that a person can get a job without experience?

[@a.r.5604]

@@postcodeox278 I think they were agreeing with you.

[@postcodeox278]

@@a.r.5604 Maybe, but he used the term Circular logic. Which means he may think I am using a logical fallacy

[@xtxt9135]

Its taught in recruiter school. Hour one, day one. Lesson 2 is if you want to apply for ANY job, you must be currently employed. It doesn't matter what the job is, just be employed. Unemployed? You're dropped from the list of applicants. Go get a job first!

[@Zach-xm5wc]

"Dogs don't betray like humans" I felt that, bro.

[@Evg-gq9wz]

Correct...

[@cosmobane6995]

Be sure to never forget to feed them. Starve them for days and they'll eat you.

[@luis9639]

@@cosmobane6995 A human being would do the same thing, if they don't eat for a weak.

[@TelmoAmaro]

In a sad way he figured out life better than most. Problem is the truth not nice to know.

[@khust2993]

sounds like a villain in a shonen anime lol

[@blor3664]

Someone get that man a dog, it’s painful to watch him hurt like that.

[@lup4634]

Giving him a dog will only alleviate the pain, but it won't find a solution for himself

[@kingwinter2024]

@@lup4634 What do you think the solution would then be for him?

[@wtfisditvoorbullshit]

@@kingwinter2024 professional player at japanese chess

[@moreofawave]

Giving a dog to a person with little or no money puts the dog at risk, but I hear you. If he could get a dog AND some help paying for the dog-that would be great.

[@kingwinter2024]

@anonymous reviewer Well aren't you on a rush to judgement.

[@valaquenta220]

"You feel like you're not living the life you're supposed to live. Like you're being forced to play a role", what Kenji Yamase said is extremely accurate: we're not in a society that wants us to become accomplished as individuals, but as productive as possible for the gain of a very very small amount of people. Hikikomoris for the most part are probably very smart and sensitive people, who understand how wrong everything is. Most people will just bear with the current system because of our will to survive, but the way workers are being treated all around the globe is incredibly wrong overall.

[@iahelcathartesaura3887]

YES, amen to all you said so well!

[@cheguevara5560]

great inside and understanding

[@alexanderson6371]

That's exactly it

[@averayugen8462]

Its just like this in america, in my state I live alone and nobody knows me despite endless attempts to break the isolation. Completely shunned by the workplace too, When my 78 disabled housemate is gone I will be alone co0mpletely, I am 2 years younger, no families for either of us ditto for friends/kids etc..., he has a few private relationships out of my purview. In fact I have struggled in every way to get my basic needs met all my life and mostly failed. No one seeing this will believe it. Convinced. Its like torture at times... like a living death.

[@lonewolf1707]

"Live" not "leave"

[@1kamejirushi821]

I was a hikikomori for more than 10 years from my late teens to late 20's. Never went outside for years or talk to anyone including my parents. I know how those shut-ins feel, looking out the window everyday, desperate to go outside and connect with people but they are just so terrified of neighbors eyes or how they are perceived by the society. Initially you'll struggle with constant panic attacks and suicidal thoughts, but they will wear off over time and you will eventually be in the state of apathy, comfortable but completely stuck in the never ending cycle of waking up in the evening, eat, browse internet, sleep again in the morning. As long as financially feasible, this continues unless some drastic external or internal change occurs. In my case it was my sister's marriage that pushed me to get back on my feet (in Japan, having a hikikomori brother-in-law is a big disadvantage when seeking for partners and I didn't want to be an even more of a burden to my family). I took gradual steps, started from going out for a midnight stroll, and when once acclimatized to outside, I seeked support from the local support group, did training, volunteering, and after some part time jobs, I went to the trading school and eventually got the full time job at the age of 33. I changed jobs since then and I'm currently unemployed again, but thats another story. I just wanted to share my experience as an hikikomori, and that there are ways to get out of the situation.

[@eridiance9818]

do you have friends now, even one or two?

[@katerina1179]

Wow. That's an amazing recovery. I hope you are doing good now ❤

[@VirginPride]

No worries, Japan is in labor shortage and has many jobs to offer.

[@cosmobane6995]

No offense, bu this is probably one of the most fluent and well structured use of English language by a Japanese in a comment section.

[@SapuTaro-nr5bl]

I hope l can be like that. Become better in my 30s. Pray to you all and to myself. Amin

[@Kira6311]

Seiko is kinda pretty amazing. It takes a lot of courage to admit that you may have probably screwed your child (seems like even more in Japanese society where there is a huge social pressure on parents and kids). She changed her view on Masoto and decided to go straight against the flow, speaking out about hikikimori issue and offering help. So strong and inspiring.

[@user-gz4ve8mw9l]

A very responsible and understanding parent truly scarce in today's world. Where the child is often more so than not both blamed and punished for the failings of the parents and the system a like. Left to bare that burden until it devours them alive or they die and are finally laid to rest.

[@indisummers4385]

I get the feeling, however, that she is blaming herself and is doing her awareness as a kind of self-mutilation or punishment. It is also not healthy. She must learn to let the blame go.

[@kerritarian4945]

@@indisummers4385 letting the blame go is easier said than done, at least she doing something great to stop the same thing to happen

[@chowfun1976]

It’s so telling of Japanese society’s handling of mental illness that not once did they mention that these people suffer from major depression and crippling social anxiety.

[@damienholland8103]

Thus making it worse.

[@krunkle5136]

But conversely American culture tolerates people whipping around their diagnosis on social media and using it as an excuse for too much.

[@confidentcat1963]

Yeesh, looks like your big bowl of whataboutism just got a little bigger. Cope.

[@chowfun1976]

Fr0ggy wtf does that even mean?

[@EveryTimeV2]

@@chowfun1976 "I post memes, am I cool?"

[@AmethystSnow]

That mum grew so much, her son taught her more than society ever could.

[@maravedisolorio5905]

Agree. She humbled herself and so realized her strictness/ inflexibility was hurting her child.

[@Doxsein]

@@maravedisolorio5905 Absolutely. Many wise thinkers would agree that the ego is the most difficult thing for a human being to dismiss. It takes a lot of willpower to learn how to detach your ego.

[@susanhenry4073]

I have total admiration for her. It's often hard enough for people in North American society - where mental health issues are somewhat more open - to question themselves and their beliefs, and then change. In a society like Japan's, it must be even harder - and takes great strength - to question your parenting beliefs, to question the roles and norms that society expects of you, and to risk changing and being quite different than mainstream parents.

[@foottoast4235]

If only all moms could do that p:

[@Wft-bu5zc]

She's an awesome person. Able to admit her own faults and help her son.

[@celestialgoddess8055]

Not having cried that hard for a long time, this documentary definitely made me cry so painfully. I can truly relate to their experiences. The second guy, Tekushi really left a mark on me. Hoping that he'll know that there's someone like me who appreciates him. Thank you so much for this eye-opening docu!

[@randzopyr1038]

You could feel his loneliness through the screen - his depression is palpable. I hope he found a way to move forward and try to carry on living, but I got a sense that he had already given up.

[@Groglor]

Same, He needs a new dog. Makes me think of how much my dog helps me.

[@mimIsra1]

@@Groglor he needs another human

[@Groglor]

@@mimIsra1 Yes but also a dog

[@sir-reynauld-the-kleptomaniac]

Meanwhile me and the bois are ripping through Estalia looking for some heretics to crush! Hope y’all find your lads and do something fun!

[@jedics1]

I went out socialising regularly until I was about 40, then I just thought one day that my 20+ years of relationships with people didn't amount to much. Now I am more content to do everything by myself, I am far less stressed by the drama ppl love to create and most jobs just make me feel trapped..I have a humble yet comfortable life and never get bored, there is a lot to do and think about.

[@coperfield9188]

Loser

[@deeannap2626]

You are talking about me👍

[@superduper2024]

Hope you are doing okay.

[@leeladhar4830]

@@coperfield9188 you can't even spell that right.

[@jasmineglein3721]

I feel the same way. I've realized so many relationships were meaningless. I'd rather be alone and do things by myself without all the drama. Simplicity and tranquility are more important in life. My thinking changed and I am happier

[@Wildflower3328]

In an age where relationships are fake, merely transactional everyone is hikikomori whether they’re physically withdrawn or not. These folks are just being real to themselves.

[@su-lh8gm]

True

[@m2heavyindustries378]

Unless you spend 30 yrs inside a single house without outside contact, you're not one of them, even if you convince yourself that

[@NetiNeti-gm5bz]

Because of compulsory heterosexuality and gender roles, that relationships are fake and transactional. When sexuality and gender is a spectrum. The soul don't like being judge for being authentic

[@Josh-rn1em]

Get just one good relationship. I have my wife. And that's all I need. It's genuine, acceptance, and love. Pick wisely and it won't be fake.

[@Josh-rn1em]

@@NetiNeti-gm5bz heterosexuality is not compulsory lol

[@phantom0948]

That mother has so much strength. To stand up and fight for her son and right her wrongs. Very inspiring.

[@mackaroni9792]

I wish my mom would realize her wrongs...

[@sirfer6969]

@@mackaroni9792 LOL me too, she often does, but way after the damage has been done.

[@user-gz4ve8mw9l]

@@mackaroni9792 That would've been life altering for me I share the same sentiment. Unfortunately my mother was very toxic and abusive as she is a narcissist. She held me hostage for nearly 3 decades of my life. Using her connections with the courts, police, and doctors. Oh the horror stories I have I have an extreme anxiety disorder, OCD, and CPTSD. All of which came from the horrible physical, but mostly mental/emotional, and verbal abuse. Not to mention extreme neglect, and having an absentee workaholic yes man for a father. Whom was also very mentally ill himself. Which often manifested itself in real world actions which constantly inflicted injuries upon my life, and well being.

[@Patrick3183]

Lmao what wrongs?

[@AtmoStk]

It's good that she's not putting him down, but she's just enabling him.

[@robbertou]

"The school counselor told me it was my fault I got bullied" Can't blame him for not wanting to live in such a society..

[@user-gz4ve8mw9l]

Same thing I was told as a child that I deserved to be raped by my math teacher in 7th grade. Bullied by students and teachers a like abused and neglected by parents. Punished by the government and system since I was a small child till this very date permanently. So yeah can hardly blame the poor guy for any of this. Anymore than one can blame a homeless person for being homeless. Much of the issues are systemic. The failures and toxic abuses of emotionally unavailable parents are symptoms of the systemic failures. A system where people are abused bullied and punished. Yet not for their own failures or actions but for the origins. A simple cause and effect yet few care to realize it. Even fewer to attempt to remedy or prevent it.

[@lazarusblackwell6988]

Yeah. The so called "counselor" should get fired.

[@adammcgirt7123]

This is a world wide problem. Its depression, plus anxiety. For some ppl, modern society is poisonous fir them.

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

Well said!

[@user-gz4ve8mw9l]

I wholeheartedly agree indeed.

[@trinity4827]

The problem does not originate in modern society per se. It is an accumulative of years of history. Civilization has always been unhealthy on different levels. We are just reaping the fruits of a sick past and a society that refuses to evolve on a human level.

[@hayleyandkilo]

its poison for everybody who is modern society good for?

[@themanape]

It's not just depression and anxiety. It's oppression of the helpless.

[@ilovemybeard3394]

Hikikimori: You feel like you're being forced to play a role I feel his pain 😭

[@hafsakamous1642]

It's what society is about. It doesn't have to be a burden when the relationships are healthy. Everyone does his part.

[@Origami84]

Cry me a river. I am forced to wake at 6am every morning to go to work. And i go by foot, because i am trying to save by not having a car. That guy that started offering himself as a dog sitter once his money began to run out is the true face of these shut-ins: for all their talk about social anxiety, they will go out and work rather than starve. As they should.

[@hafsakamous1642]

Origami84 i think taking part in society is painful, but comes naturally to people without social anxiety. But when you do have it, you are a prisoner of your fears and they are real and torturous. You can’t talk yourself out of it because it is colonizing your thoughts. And on the top of it, you feel no sense of achievement and feel juged. You said it, only starving forced him out. It isn’t a face, it is a disease. Diseases need and can be cured.

[@yudycampbell6988]

which national are you? me too i'm Indonesian i ever withdraw from society by locking myself in my room because i felt inferior and didn't accept reality

[@craftycriminalistwithms.z3053]

I’m sorry love. I know this story you feel very well. I have lived it for many, many years now. After almost two decades I finally feel okay with myself. Don’t give up, know that the your role, that you feel you’re acting in, will feel more like a real life story. That it is actually a real story, with beauty hidden all over, and not completely a negative. Life has ups and downs, life constantly changes and we change with life. The changes in all of our lives, are all so different from each other, but we all are so very similar. The changes are actually part of the human experience and it can be beautiful, once you’re ready, and you’ll know when that time comes.

[@IdgaradLyracant]

When a society expects perfection without flaw, only to realize everyone is flawed, but refuses to let go of thier expectations of perfection, exile is the last civilized act of those deemed imperfect.

[@dougrobbins5367]

why is it the last?

[@IdgaradLyracant]

@@dougrobbins5367 Because after that the solution is less than civilized. After exile comes things like genocide, eugenics, internment camps, and worse.

[@Iamthepossum]

Very intelligent reply; thanks

[@nextpage3535]

Brilliantly and also painfully put in words. It's not the hikikomori(s) or millennials - the fault is in the unhealthy mindset of society. I really love your comment :)

[@Aja-Christian]

Exquisitely phrased observation!

[@TonOfHam]

There is nothing wrong with the hikikomori, they are responding to the world around them properly. It is the world that is sick. It's normal and healthy to withdraw from the sickness that our world has become. "It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society. " Jiddu Krishnamurti

[@hopeful5537]

Hi Jiddu, I am trying to make contact with you. I need your help. Hope to hear from you soon (left another message for you on "Edge of the world" animation that you did a few years ago.

[@TonOfHam]

@@hopeful5537 I responded to your other message and I'm here if you need anything so just let me know.

[@Ablequerq]

Tell that to the psychologists.

[@TonOfHam]

@@Ablequerq Unfortunately, psychology only deals with integrating a person to their environment or system. They are never concerned with changing the the world, only the patient's relationship to it. This is one of the frustrations people often experience when visiting a therapist or psychologist. They can never tell you what is right or wrong, what you should or should not do. They can only help you integrate into the system you are in, nothing more.

[@hopeful5537]

Hi Jiddu, we don't have the finances to send our son to study animation. Do you know of any other way he can perhaps just start this at home, like cheaper online courses? What would he need to have at home to do it?

[@WalrusesAreTheOne]

As an unsupported autistic woman, this is my life in the US

[@TheJust22az]

I am an American and can totally relate to this life style. Fortunately, I was forced to engage in society and feel I can function like most but prefer isolation.

[@scottgrunow5201]

Lar Same here. As I become older, i feel less and less inclined to try and fit in.

[@timetowakeup7394]

@@scottgrunow5201 I agree when you get older other people's opinions don't matter. You also get tired of wearing a mask and being fake.

[@PapakatsuTom]

This

[@jonathanjacques7250]

I feel the same, I have to be social for work but it is painful.

[@cynthiaarons9373]

Lar : One who can live without much interaction outside is one who is comfortable with one’s self and is quite strong. It is better to be alone than socialize with ppl who aren’t really interested in the other in a deep & real way; most are superficial and insincere. With a smart TV, it keeps me educated in history, science and political and current events. Unfortunately, many are not interested in discussing those topics.

[@xPoemi]

It probably doesn't help that mental health is still a very taboo topic in Japan...

[@TheKbnrba]

thousands of years as a strong and prosperous nation and very spiritual and only now in the modern age they are driven by emotions i call that bullshit, its your own fault if you're emotionally messed up.

[@xPoemi]

@@TheKbnrba Definitely. I just pray that nobody close to you will ever suffer from serious mental problems so you can'tgive them this horrible opinion of yours.

[@AndT101]

All that space age technological advancement is for nothing if a nation can't address it's problem of mental health.

[@Shogoeu]

@@TheKbnrba Saying "It's your fault if you're emotionally messed up" is seriously messed up.

[@Shogoeu]

@@AndT101 The government is spending huge sums of cash for research on that topic, but sadly the results are fictitious and there is little to no improvement.

[@pali_aha2781]

9:38 Takuya Ishikawa wants to be filmed. He's simply crying out for help. Give me his address and I'll send him a postcard.

[@eclipsa3364]

Me too, please!

[@ParisFranceTransit]

You could email to the creators of this video if you're serious.

[@dennisholmgren4107]

An update on him and would be cool

[@shikai69b]

I really want to reach out and talk with him. Even if you have done nothing in your life there will always be interesting stories compiled throughout life.

[@zoey5104]

Please, I want to help him.

[@LA-fh2fs]

"None of the clocks in the house are working, Takoya says it's because time has lost all meaning to him" That hit really deep.

[@werebilbyj4449]

These are the kids at school I used to get at lunch time and bring over to sit with me so they wouldn't be on their own. I have made some really long time friends because of this. We prevented a lot of bullying because of doing this. Some kids weren't interested but if you offered an ear to listen and a comfortable spot to sit for lunch you would be surprised how nice people are once you get to know them. Frankly, this sounds like people who struggle with mental health and should have been receiving treatment but due to the way society in Japan treats mental illness, these lovely individuals shut themselves off from the world, which is such a loss.

[@jeffzhang9705]

I wish I were as courageous as you during school. Thanks for sharing.

[@O1OO1O1]

Thanks. You never know the impact your kindness may have had.

[@gijane2cantwaittoseeyou203]

Isolated kids dont need your pity. SOme people are fine alone, they just dont need bullies.

[@geoffreyharris5931]

@@gijane2cantwaittoseeyou203 Some do. I did.

[@geoffreyharris5931]

Yeah. It looks like mental health issues are at work here.

[@ISayToMyself]

I don’t get why they won’t let an individual adopt a pet. A companion would be such a blessing for him. 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@theillyri8339]

Probably it's a political tool . As we know Japanese population isn't increasing, and people are not marrying or having children, in one hand you have the category of people who give up, and on the other hand you have the people trying extraordinarily hard to fit in, study and work extra hours to fit the standards of Japanese society, and in such a constellation, relationships and marriage and kids are seen as a hindrance. On the other hand owning a pet is a substitution in companionship for many (just like in the west), However the situation seems to be far more extreme in Japan, and I've heard they're seriously considering new measures to break away from that, and I'm speculating this is just one of them .

[@richardwhitfill5253]

I agree

[@nepadron]

The standards to adopt a pet in Japan are (no joke) almost as high as adopting a child. However, there are many many people getting rid of litters of pets in Japan, so it might just be this man's inability to navigate the social issues it would take to ask for a spare pup.

[@isisantonio2250]

@@nepadron agree

[@choux8372]

@@nepadron that last part 💀 I'm slowly breaking out of my hikkikomori shell too, and the most mind boggling thing is that a lot of people will assist you, or at least listen to your request if you just ask them nicely. Not everyone is like that, but enough people that it's worth asking anyways

[@nobody3800]

Yes, show the world those who have been isolated, polarized, rejected and betrayed by society.

[@aleisterdenven]

I know of one person - a very young man who has lived in Voluntary Isolation since 1995!!! He wanted to become The Greatest Possible Inventor Ever,but has faced so much disenchantment and disillusionment that he became full of Infinite hatred and sadness.I don't know what will happen to him???

[@iancain8215]

I'm from Britain and I totally get where he is coming from, being alone means I'm safe.

[@Thank-u-so-much-for-everything]

alone meaning we are safe from bad people ........... not engaging in like most useless activities that most people usually do

[@samannthaswtnss9397]

The man with the dog broke my heart. Please know you have reached Canada and half way around the world. I see you exist. I see you my friend. Im also a home body and rarely leave. You are not alone.

[@aleisterdenven]

I know of one person - a very young man who has lived in Voluntary Isolation since 1995!!! He wanted to become The Greatest Possible Inventor Ever,but has faced so much disenchantment and disillusionment that he became full of Infinite hatred and sadness.I don't know what will happen to him???

[@maggie4396]

REACH HIM BY PLAYING CHESS WITH HIM OR SEND HIM MONEY BECAUSE HE OUT OF MONEY TO PAY BILLS!

[@Mondscheinstaub]

Coming from Germany, having lived in Tokyo for almost two years, I can assure each of you westeners that the social pressure in our world is ridiculous compared to Japan. Their social system is totally backwards - they are technologically very forward and modern, but socially stuck in the 1950s or 60s. If you fell pressured by society and other people's expectations in Europe or the US, never move to Japan. It will break you down mentally.

[@khav11]

just because they tend to be far more conservative and you dont like that as a progressive i bet? doesnt mean they're "stuck 50 years ago" idiot

[@Mondscheinstaub]

Grigori Rasputin1990 Dumpster, it‘s not about liking this system or not, it’s a system that destroys humans and human relationships. It denies other people to live freely and personal development, but supports racism, sexism, violence against children, and homophobia. That‘s why there are so many suicides and other negative social phenomena rather unique to Japan. People there are supposed to function quietly and accept any form of oppression. There’s a reason why this social system has evolved in many countries. If it had been so good, people wouldn’t have fought for it to progress 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@khav11]

@@Mondscheinstaub well im a white straight 6"6 male so im guessing i should be fine? just to visit

[@Mondscheinstaub]

@@khav11 You can't compare visiting a country with living in it. And yeah, even as a white, straight, tall guy you will be faced with racism and sexism. Apart from that, the world doesn't belong to people like you, who happen to be white, straight and tall. But I guess as a fankid of a Russian preacher from another century, you are too close-minded to get that.

[@AmethystSnow]

Japan's definitely been romanticized by anime and video games. I think that's why they produce such good stories since all they can do is fantasize about the kind of freedom anime and video game characters have.

[@takaakiyy3983]

I am a former hikikomori in Japan.I had a mental illness but now I am able to work part time. The reason why hikikomori like them were able to appear in this documentary is because it is a creation of a foreign TV station. If their information was aired in Japanese, they would be attacked by netizens all over Japan. The Japanese are that kind of people.

[@UnCannyValley67]

I love these socially withdrawn video stories. They make me feel all cozy and snuggly.

[@lazarusblackwell6988]

LOL i understand that

[@unsexyman]

"It is no sign of good health to be fully integrated into a sick society." Krishna

[@mouazahmed3139]

I love that.

[@StCloud-ns7vt]

YES! you just rebuffed this entire doc.

[@hermanlane9846]

Hello - exactly. I have always known that I cannot be sane in. world gone mad.

this quote is so true it hurts

[@jasminealixandranorth]

Krishnamurti!!

[@rakaipikatan8922]

"Honest hearts produce honest actions" a simple line to describe them. Despite the bleakness of their live, they are true to themselves.

[@longratloa3222]

Am not sure their lives can be called bleak. There is joy in anything and bleakness also if we make it so. ..the corporate guys are just faking it with a fancy car and being loud at a bar.

[@brbapappa]

I believe they gave up hope. That's not an ideal situation but bearable at best.

[@victoriakraft6055]

Thanks

[@Gauchland]

Mental illness or not, part of the issue is the shame culture of shaming these people for living differently, and blaming them for being different.

[@margaretta-wc5rp]

I'm a well-educated Hikikomori. Got Degrees in Engineering and Law. Always wanted to be in school. Never wanted to get out into real world to work. Could use someone to talk to.

[@AhmedMohammed-xq5ep]

it is my first time to hear someone love school more than work.... you will be good since you like school and you have degrees... don't surrender and make your parents suffer in their late ages instead of making them happy and comfortable... you should take the step and beleive me day by day ignore bad thaughts that inhibits you untill one day you will hate to be out of work..... if one of those people just decided to take small steps and fight for themselves they would never end up suffering now... it is just our personality and our body tend to be safe and happy and comfortable, but easy life make difficult sad ending... i really feel sad and cry for them but at the end of the day it was their choice to give up.

[@themanape]

You got what you wanted. What else do you want?

[@riaramirez9550]

Work is just like school. There are rules, peers, and superiors. But better because you earn money to provide for your needs. So, you should love it too! I hope one day you can join the zombie world, este the workforce. And when you rejoin the society, I hope you can inspire other hikikomoris as well. I'm sure you will treat them with compassion and be none of those self-righteous, judgemental people. Good luck to you!

[@1abi07]

In my opinion the problem is simple. Cultural pressure that Japanese society puts on their Children. Myself an Indian and we also have this problem of judgmental society. In rest of Asian culture its much more diluted. Indians and South Koreans have a track record for depression and suicides when it comes to competitive exams and learning. When everybody says Asians are very successful they forget that many are left behind in this race.

[@vfaulkon]

I guess it's easier to say that Asians are more successful when the ones that aren't never leave their homes or interact with people.

[@TheAmubis]

yup, kinda reminds me of what Oda says, "There's no real future for the people who always dispose every single thing they deemed useless."

[@LuckyDuckie115]

lol has nothing to do with culture, there a millions of hermits in the U.S. Heck you can even consider the 2+ million U.S. prisoners in this category, the bulk of them prefer not to interact with anyone.

[@vfaulkon]

@@LuckyDuckie115 I know. I am one.

[@mirieshii1948]

@@LuckyDuckie115 i don't think so. There are hermits everywhere, but rarely not pushed to be so because of the same reasons the Japanese encounter.

[@shunomar9947]

Since I was grade one. I was a slow learner. And my teacher always pinched me because I did not understand the lesson. And my classmates bullied me. They throw my bag like a basketball and shot into the trash bin. They stole my money and things. And because of the trauma Im afraid to go inside in the room. When the students saw me that I was not in my class. They teased me being cutting classes. They thrown me discouraging words like Im lazy. When I was in grade 3 I quitted three times. In my first year in grade 3. on the frist day class my teacher had a big shouty voice. She let me to stoop up and everyone was looking at me. Because I did not understand, she said something funny to my self and others were laughing. I did not came back after that day. On the second year, I repeated in grade 3 twice. My mother forced me to go to School. I had no choice but to follow. On the first day class. I told my seatmate that he had something liquid like milk on his ear. I told him in a nice way, I was very shy kid. He cried and his cousine came and was very angry and slapped me. I was blushed and everyone was looking at me. I ran and never cameback. On the third year, repeated 3x. My classmates bullied me they shoot me with thier toy gun and it hurts. I tried to be brave and confiscated thier toy gun. One of my classmates punched me. It was so pain. I was crying I ran and never cameback. Since that trauma. I hate to go to School. Never intermingle other kids. I stayed always in the house. We did not have electricity in the small house during that day. I quarantined my self and never talked to people. I read books in the morning until in the evening. Read read and read thats all I did. Life is very mean to me. But I need to fight and be brave to face them and ignore all the negatives and think positive things. Accept the world that not everyone is an angel.

[@petitejennyhoang9247]

shuno mar I am very sorry and to hear about your story. But at the same time I am truly impressed by your strength and courage to move forward. Bullying is terrible and unfortunately many children including you and me have gone through it. But you should be proud of yourself for not letting it defeat you. And school is not the only place that you can learn. I have come across many nice and wonderful people that only completed high school, yet have done very well in life. Also I just want you to know that even though life could be unfair at times, there are still a lot of great people and lovely things to look toward to. I sincerely hope that you will find those precious things to hold on to. And best of luck with your future ❤️

[@sasorishino]

Sounds to me that you need a counselor or a therapist.

[@articxunodorseggnej8016]

It’s tough but you must go to school or find online education just so you can get a degree and good job and wipe in their face

[@hazelyep3519]

It hurts to read about your story. You are in my prayers. Stay strong and Love yourself 💪😊

[@bigzkhalifah5851]

What don't kill you will make you stronger believe that!

[@user-qb9bz8nu2g]

I just want to comment on Takuya-san. You have reached me all the way in Canada. My condition is similar to yours and my life is no different than yours my friend. I'm a 33-year-old Asian female hermit. I quit society few years ago. I suffer from OCD, bitterness,depression and was severely abused from my dad as well and those whom I trusted around me. I no longer trust humans. I no longer feel the passage of time and it's safe to say that I've already given on my life. But I must also say that there's no shame in choosing the hikikomori path since our current world and society has turned into absolute trash. I chose to spend my remaining life in peace and quiet hiding from the current sick world. You are not alone Takuya-san.

[@h.j7469]

Hi, Jesus loves you sister, if you go to church, you will find peace in God...

[@user-qb9bz8nu2g]

Thank you for your kind words. In fact I'm a believer in Christ and my sole goal left in life is to make it to heaven. I just don't attend church because that would mean interacting with humans.

[@Rodrigos.godoy86]

I've been living like this most of my life, right now at 36 that's exactly how i live and i relate to everything i saw on this video, been looked down upon since early school, difficulties integrating with family, judgment, well the list goes on, I've been trying to be out, but we have psychological wounds that prevents us from succeeding at work, like low self confidence, we're screw ups. Its not a happy life at all.

[@jesseleol]

Same and I'm 31. I've been living this life since I graduated from college

[@martingicemi8745]

Am in Kenya, African and I hear you. I really hope society and people can change for the better. Hope you heal your wounds and are able to socialize more meaningfully, adios

[@Rodrigos.godoy86]

Thank you so much! I wish you happiness too.

[@abhishekdhanger5214]

Same with me i am 30

[@JB-cs4jt]

Also 36 same boat, i did have jobs and semi normal things kinda lost everything. Well wishes to you all.

[@mausoleumdouche3589]

Is it just me, or does anyone else think "bullied by a teacher" is a euphemism for a more sinister kind of abuse? Poor guy.

[@xHappiestSadist]

That could be the case, but even if the abuse were "less severe", it can still lead to trauma and distrust in authority. It's a shame how often this still happens, even with all of the bullying awareness that has come to rise the past few years. Goes to show there's definitely something fundamentally wrong with the standardized educational model.

[@1x93cm]

it's possible. But likely some sort of corporal punishment due to his age. Either way. He's fked.

[@toady7741]

We need to end forced, compulsory schooling (and with it bullying, shunning, ostracism and being "cool" and "alright" vs being a "nerd"). What we take for granted was a Prussian invention in the late 1800s.

[@kubli365]

@@toady7741 I mean... it's not forced and compulsory.

[@TheBuilderize]

@Christina Reynolds Like buttsex

[@smkace5558]

"His only points of interaction were his mother [] and his dog, []…...both have died in the last two years. He says its his dog that he misses the most"

[@suranjanabasu498]

I live in India but I have experienced many of the problems that you have presented so well. I have lived in isolation for the best part of my life. Society just does nor care and is also very cruel. Glad to see my fellow sufferers. Thanks.

[@indisummers4385]

I care.

[@nebhalabir1201]

❤️

[@aleisterdenven]

I know of one person - a very young man who has lived in Voluntary Isolation since 1995!!! He wanted to become The Greatest Possible Inventor Ever,but has faced so much disenchantment and disillusionment that he became full of Infinite hatred and sadness.I don't know what will happen to him???

[@spm4126]

All watching this video are hikkokomoris

[@LodeNid]

Most of these people seem to have a form of autism...

[@matthewlewis7513]

Yutaka is actually depressed, I can see it. He's just not aware of it due to him being happy all the time...

[@b2serious]

Japan has a saying " The nail that sticks out gets hammered." But a hammer that swings too hard breaks the nail, so now that nail is not useful and is thrown aside but now the ground is full of nails, and the one with the hammer is now stepping on them, hurting themselves.

[@MA-xl3zx]

The nail that sticks out

[@b2serious]

@@MA-xl3zx thanks

[@torachan23]

"I'm 14 and this is deep"

[@Bambim8]

When I read "nail" I thought of a fingernail.

[@nievescalvo2786]

@@Bambim8 me too. And I was like: what a weird saying :/

[@chrislove4851]

I can totally relate to them...social withdrawal occurs to those individuals who have gone through bullies,couldn’t fit into society and couldn’t make a friends ...this result into social distancing and taking resort with their own self.I don’t think they are happy inside ...they just doesn’t want to go through the similar experiences that they face during childhood

[@tanujakumari2363]

U just said exactly what wanted to say, .. I have suffered the same, and I do live in isolation if there is no important need or something. People compare me with them and tell me how werid and useless I'm.

[@riaramirez9550]

I lived in Japan for three years. I can say Japanese people are extremely quiet people. No loud music & keep to themselves most of the time. They are very conscientious people that when bad luck ( ie losing a job) comes to them, it takes a toll on their mental health. Passive aggressive behaviour is so common. These hikikomoris were bullied by passive aggressive people in their lives that they became passive aggressive themselves. But their introspection in life is really deep, like they really listen to their souls. I wish they find the happiness and peace they are looking for, even if it means remaining as hikikomori.

[@shirleylangton7967]

If you're an introverted person, that's who you are! It's unfair for others to try to make you anything else. They have their own interests and talents but society won't let them.

[@sickofit5547]

Exactly, the same people would say don’t judge them, but are the ones judging the isolated one. Humans are not good people no matter who they try to fool.

[@ar2042]

Poor guy, can't even adopt another dog

[@kellywest111]

That's so dumb single guys can take care of animals and the dog need homes too. That's just unnecessary hardship.

[@dw7312]

That’s sad.

[@titrationss]

their society is in need of serious work. Dude just wants a friend

[@akamiyayi]

So sad

[@teksal13]

I am 67. My dog was my baby, she died about 1 1/2 years ago . I understand the guy's need for another dog.

[@Lily-tn4ly]

Thank you for the wonderful program. Please provide Japanese subtitles so that many Japanese can view this. たくさんの日本人に観ていただきたいです。

[@maravedisolorio5905]

I could not agree more with you. It is also great to hear that there are now 400 non-government schools across Japan that recognize the Futoko children problem and are there to provide a safe and compassionate learning space for these children. It is also admirable that one of the former hikikomori now works together with other hikikomori with art projects to bring light to this issue and as a form of therapy for the hikikomori. I was specially touched that Watchinabe made a breakthrough in his recovery as he leaned that his mother had been in pain all this years while he was on the other side of the door. And that his mother had been reading books on the hikikomori 23:33 all that time.

[@lunarcowboy9275]

Takuya's story broke my heart, he looks so terribly sad and lonely. He clearly feels the need for an emotional connection that's why he tried adopting a dog which I think it's a wonderful idea. It's crazy that only families are allowed to adopt. When he showed the reporter that beautiful flyer with the boy and the dog... that was it for me. Maybe they would let him volunteer at the shelter? Hope he and all the others in this documentary are well and content.

[@skycloud4802]

I'm not sure about Japan specifically, but it's common for reputable dog breeders and dog homes to refuse dogs to single homes. The reason I was told was because dogs are highly sociable creatures and would be neglected if left at home for long periods when owner is out doing business or at work. Ironically, Hikikomori would be at home a lot anyway so it's probably in theirs _and_ the dogs interest to be together.

[@maggie4396]

FIRST HE NEED A JOB BECAUSE HE GONNA LOST HIS HOUSE!

[@tingkusapam7502]

Being an asian, every middle class household has the same mindset of strict parenting which eventually led them to social isolation. And financially indepent is very mich require to live our life in our wish.

[@teresiamaina9573]

Even Africans strict parenting is a thing that drove some of us to self isolation.... a kenyan here

[@lornanyakoa1617]

The young kid found his path early in life.

[@CheapSushi]

I mean, practically everyone wants to be socially famous now. Lots of people making a ton of money from wanting constant attention. He is so young now, and it's humble and honest, but eventually it won't be.

[@eyobassey5106]

@@CheapSushi 💯💯

[@FightsRightsAlways]

"Do you want me to kill him??" I can't even imagine.

[@hafsakamous1642]

Siblings say horrible things to each other when angry though.

[@FightsRightsAlways]

@@hafsakamous1642 judging by the mom's reply and the time that he said it in, I'm thinking no.

[@Ha0chan]

yeah i'd be depressed too if i had been brough up with people like that

[@snoopy_peanuts_77]

older bro is a straight up triggered psycho

[@retrofuture1989]

@@hafsakamous1642 Saying you want to kill your sibling in a serious manner goes beyond just saying something horrible, that person truly is heartless and a horrible older brother.

[@letiziareis.]

They are really courageous for admitting that they are hikikomori’s especially in Japan...

[@borderhopper3296]

Kenji in the first case: Though he is the social stay-puts, he is very eloquent and analytical when he talks about himself.

[@thesapphireempress9635]

Such an insightful and necessary documentary. My heart goes out to those who are so lonely and emotionally in need of someone to reassure them. One common thread through many of the interviewees’ experiences is that of an unpleasant, abusive experience at school, and the impact that it had on the decision to embrace the hikikomori lifestyle. That phenomenon is something that also needs to be explored in depth, particularly since the teachers seem to be given free reign to interact with the students in a way that causes them harm. Especially for students who may have anxiety, different disorders, or are shyer than others.

[@christobe7000]

All people are good, its just bad things happen to us.

[@toady7741]

Home Schooling! Online Education! Rah! Rah@ Rah#

[@dbsk06]

I totally get him. I thought Tokyo was heaven visiting as a tourist but the society is way too oppressive

[@justinzhang6883]

it happens everywhere, people just having all sort of problems. Luckily, some of these people in developed countries are able to be sheltered by their parents and social welfare.

[@vintageb8]

it's true. Japan is awesome as a tourist, but living there.. it's a whole different story . Well unless you're financially well-off

[@khav11]

@@justinzhang6883true im thankful i grew up in a well-off family! and white, male and straight, it doesnt get better than this!

[@capoislamort100]

Grigori Rasputin1990 what are you doing with all that “privilege”...what are you contributing to society?

[@justinzhang6883]

capoislamort100 , he just speak the truth. Living peacefully and quietly rather be a sociopath is considered to contribute to the society.

[@meeks1201]

What a great piece- I especially loved seeing the man who runs the alternative school for the kids that stopped going to regular school. Kids should be encouraged to be themselves, have fun, express their feelings, and feel safe.

[@Decodedz]

Such a kind hearted person and life has been so cruel to him. I hope he finds some happiness.

[@aleisterdenven]

I know of one person - a very young man who has lived in Voluntary Isolation since 1995!!! He wanted to become The Greatest Possible Inventor Ever,but has faced so much disenchantment and disillusionment that he became full of Infinite hatred and sadness.I don't know what will happen to him???

[@mirrorm00n]

The people featured in this feature suffered or experienced abuse or developmental disorder when they were younger. One may feel they're all still children, hiding in a house. :( great video, anyway, very enlightening.

[@lohst1672]

Desiderio Luna thats exactly it. I’m almost 26, still feel like a child.

[@Germatti13489]

@@lohst1672 I am 61, I think that we all feel like that at times... that we are still children inside and faking being an adult on the outside. But I think that as you get older you lose the magic you felt as a child and want to keep that magic inside.

[@Germatti13489]

@Madam Meouff you might have someone write something up for you and give it out to them or tell them about it first, so that they can understand.

[@foottoast4235]

​@Madam Meouff I have neither yet was a hikikomori for 5 years-ish, any mental illness can cause it, although those two, especially the latter are probably among the common causes. What makes Japan especially get affected by hikikomori is that they don't take mental illness seriously and it makes many go undiagnosed, also their school system probably isn't the best for someone with ADHD, but then again, what school system is?

[@aronhighgrove4100]

@@Germatti13489 I think a lot of that magic is lost due to outside pressure, due to people cruelly destroying your beliefs or dreams, thinking they are superior, more right, or more realist, when they are really just pessimistic people who adapted and gave in, and want to ruin you too, some aware, some unaware. It's really a pitty we can't enjoy the magic.

[@armanmislang7726]

This is a very enlightening documentary with so much depth, sensitivity and humanity. I particularly liked how the parents, the mothers in particular, were always there for their children through it all. The reminder that it could happen to anyone is also very real. Wishing for positivity, strength and enlightenment for everyone who is going through something like this!

[@jinzzzxx]

You feel like you're being forced to play a role. I felt that.

[@cenganzon]

The first 3 minutes of the video just crushed my heart. I feel pity for the 50-year-old man who was diagnosed 5 years ago only with ADHD. I imagined my son in the shoes of that man. My son, who was diagnosed with mild autism and ADHD, is so obsessed with Japan and dreams of living in Japan. I like to live in Japan too since I was a child, but after watching many videos about Japanese culture, I realize that Japan is not a good place to live for my son. Japan is a beautiful place to travel and other reasons, but for people with a developmental and mental disorder, it's just hard to imagine how is their life there. These people need x10 attention, understanding, and support from their own families. As a mother, you wanted all the best for your child so you support, guide, teach, and love them. It appears that as a Japanese, you need to cope with all the issues of society and personal problems all by yourself even your death (the number of people dying alone is increasing in Japan). They are lacking love and acceptance because of these "standards" that forces you to be NOT YOU and NOT live the life that you call life. I'm thankful that I'm living in my country full of cheerful people, lovable, supportive families up to the 2nd or 3rd generation, but still, society pressure is visible but tolerable and not painful/suicidal like in Japan.

[@bangrojai4868]

Maybe their culture but i think it is their population ratio that made this worse. Imagine you are on your way to school alone since there is no other children in your village. I saw some Japanese movies and this is the reality. Some dialogues said," oh...this field used to be full of children playing baseball. Now it is just empty space". You have no friend since there is nobody left to play with you.

[@sn9731]

Masato's mother is amazing, she's just so real. Happy for her, hope she keeps going and they all flourish as a family @14:46 realising that is priceless and shows her maturity, wisdom and humility. Beautiful

[@alkabahal4820]

Yes takes a lot of courage share your personal stories

[@omennemo8844]

Twenty odd years ago, I decided to stop mingling and stay to myself. I am tired of worrying about what people think of me. I too lose track of time. I visit my daughter and I say high to my neighbors but spend most of my time in my world. I have my dogs. A lot of people are doing this. It has to do with the way things are now in society. I waited until I was finished raising my children and able to live off my income. Now I am free to do me without worrying about judgmental people. I was very talkative and loved dancing and sports. I am 72 and I've done all I had to do. I did have fun and now I seek peace and quiet. I now give my voice to the internet.

[@nilsify]

Thanks to everyone that was interviewed! Your experiences will help others for sure, thank you for sharing!

[@GadisBaliLivesAbroad]

If children say they'd rather die than going to school, there is a huge problem with the school or the parenting at home.

[@allisonnull335]

Speaking as somebody who has watched many treatments of this issue, this is the only one that stands out to me as having any real sensitivity, depth, or understanding of what many of the underlying factors are here. I used to be a hikikomori type myself, still kind of am. Slowly crawling out of it. If anyone has any questions, please feel free to reply here and I'll do my best to get back to you. MANY thanks to Al Jazeera for the video ~allison

[@makepeace234]

@Cam In That's all well and good, but there are many people who have psychiatric issues that need to be addressed by a qualified physician.

[@Iamthepossum]

J H @JH, your racism and xenophobia has no place here. Troll somewhere else. Cam is wishing you all the best in this life; but your angry and hateful attitude is like a poison you are giving yourself.

[@pooja350]

I'm not going to force my religion on you. Nor do I have any questions. Though I wish you well in your progress, my friend 💙

[@klnd5666]

The guy who helps children and mother who take care for her boy were so cool. Yutaka, you are my hero.

[@MegaLivingIt]

Yutaka age 11 going on 40. His was the most desperate message of all to other kids about bullying. I also don't think parents in America should keep sending a child back to the same school if they are being bullied. Leads to suicide which is completely avoidable.

[@mineralwater2511]

im from the uk and i feel the same i just dont fit in anywhere no real mates you do feel like your not living i feel like a ghost people just dont see me .

[@moneyfreedomsuicide..1869]

I spent 12 years living like this.. But eventually you must get out, financial reasons force you.. It's so hard, to change..

[@hellblizzard8043]

It must be hard. I hope you doing okay now.

[@moneyfreedomsuicide..1869]

@@hellblizzard8043 yes it was still is, no I am not doing okay, planning to get some money be isolated for some time again and end it.. Just a way I feel strongly about..thanks for the nice words..

[@hellblizzard8043]

I understand that I know nothing of your circumstances and it's not my place to act mighty and giving people advices, but I hope every choice you took not gonna make you regret it later.. I wish you all the best

[@moneyfreedomsuicide..1869]

@@hellblizzard8043 thank you, I like your reply really deep intelligent, wish you everything best..

[@rexguy7823]

Lived in Japan for a few years & loved it. But when this guy talks about being bullied & the adults at the school told him he deserved it, it brought to mind a train crash where hundreds of people died when I was living there. The train driver was a young guy (he died in the crash), who had been bullied by the older staff for not being on time. There are many underlying issues/problems in Japan..not a few, many

[@aronhighgrove4100]

Lots of people bully about not being on time, age is not relevant here, eventhough people love to add some ageism in, and bully based on that implicitly...

[@RogueShadowAngel]

honestly, this was me ten years ago. i was forced to go to school because home school wasn't an option in my area. i mostly interact with one friend in real life when she's in town but beyond that I spend a lot of my time in my room. I'm mostly talking to my friends online. my sister is like this. I'm a shut in because of health reasons and I feel more safe because humanity is scary and I never really fit in because I was atypical in my local community. i feel these people.

[@deyatnakanya8281]

I think those hikikomori are smart. they talked about their opinion/feeling/thought very well. people/governments should listen to them and find the solution to their concerns.

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

Nobody cares about solutions...solutions cost money.

[@Thank-u-so-much-for-everything]

@@gothboschincarnate3931 actually some people really care about physical practical solutions ......... don't it's hard to come up with an idea and more harder to impliment that idea into an real physical ...

[@honeydate]

Dogs don't betray, unlike humans. And they accept you as you are and love you unconditionally. My sentiments exactly - I love dogs more than I love humans. The amount of times I have been betrayed by so called friends I can honestly miscount as it's been that many. Humans can be so intensely cruel to humans yet won't even show remorse when they know they have done wrong.

[@sickofit5547]

That part. Sending peace to you ❤

[@honeydate]

Thank you@@sickofit5547

[@allmine853]

i watch a young korean youtuber and she never leaves her room. she has contractual work she does in her room for a wage but never leaves. the work is picked up when completed and her groceries are ordered online and delivered. i always wonder why it seems more and more this happens

[@robertd4100]

she performes 'services'

[@Rmadridista4life]

whats the channel name?

[@beeemm6012]

9:03 Aww when the dog's tail stopped wagging as soon as he left. My heart 😔

[@selah7067]

Only families can adopt pets? 😢 We're in a cruel and stigmatized world. I hope there is a place for these individuals in society.

[@kesihatanserantau4554]

For me its because of workplace mobbing that I experienced. This turned me into a hikikomori for 3 years after resigning from the job

[@sickofit5547]

Same. The world is filled with lunatics… the health one is the one getting away from the crazies

[@Aja-Christian]

Watching these videos about hikikomori is definitely making me sympathize with their situation more. I know most of these cases revolve around Japanese but I know it's a worldwide phenomenon. And now with this virus taking over the globe I'm starting to think that people like this are only going to increase. Companies are going out of business, people are losing their jobs and now with social distancing a lot of us have become involuntary shut ins for who knows how long. Once this worldwide lockdown is over, there's no doubt in my mind that many survivors will end up sinking into a depression either due to mourning the loss of a loved one or because they have no idea if or when they're going to get back on their feet. In developed nations like Japan, South Korea, the US, the UK, etc, we already had young, college educated people struggling to find full-time work, and in just the last 30 days the economy around the world just got plunged deeper into trouble. More people are probably going to just remove themselves from society because the idea of trying to get back into the rat race just seems hopeless.

[@kenocken]

Very well said, I agree.

[@lagerthathorkildsdottir9074]

Seeing this is like seeing Finnish people. Thee are lots of similarities. Poor social skills, xenophobia, poor language skills and limited knowledge about other cultures and countries. Both nations seem to have an overload of emotional and social disability

[@hipsterchic]

I completely agree, especially with your last sentence. Although I could never live a lifestyle that reclusive, I can understand why some people do and I don’t blame them. As time has gone on I realise there are a lot of things that are wrong with society. I’m an introvert so have always been happy in my own company but as I get older I have noticed the need to be alone more and wanting to keep people at arms length.

[@wm4506]

The effects of the lock down will be worse than the disease could have ever done.

[@ooooooop_6067]

I completely agree and I’m one of those people who aren’t gonna know how to cope when everything goes back to normal it scares me shitless to even think about going back to school

[@georgfriedrichhandel4390]

Having studied Japanese culture - though I don't claim to be an expert in it - I suspect this problem has existed in Japan for many years now. The video mentioned several times that Japan encourages conformity and teamwork. When the Japanese economy was booming and many companies offered lifetime employment, a student graduating from college wouldn't "find a job", they would "enter a company". Those fortunate enough (about 30% of the labor force) to land a lifetime position had to give all their loyalty to that company (singing the company anthem in the morning and things like that). But those who failed to find a good job - even one that did not guarantee lifetime employment - were socially ostracized. They had to accept the lowest-paid jobs most Japanese refused to do and were thus marginalized. This problem is now receiving some attention because it has been exacerbated what with Japan's now-stagnant economy and greater competition for good-paying jobs.

[@LEO-xo9cz]

What was the cause of the crash? Was it due to foreign meddling?

[@georgfriedrichhandel4390]

@@LEO-xo9cz Pretty much for the same reason for the financial meltdown on Wall St in 2007 only on a much larger scale. By the early 90s, Japanese property and stock values were grossly overvalued and Japanese banks were loaning huge amounts of money based on the price of these overvaluations. But once the asset bubble burst, many businesses saw the value of their stock plummet. These businesses thus became insolvent and could not repay their loans which resulted in many bank failures. There are other contributing factors also (a fall in incomes, a tight monetary policy by the Bank of Japan for example) but that is the main reason.

[@MarkAJohnsonEDLDFall]

Thank you for sharing.

[@davidjb65]

I'm one and I'm British. I don't waste my money in the pub and I don't do relationships because I find women to be irrational. I have my hobbies and I'm perfectly happy and I also enjoy a quiet life.

[@maggie4396]

YOUR BEST FRIEND!!!

[@hendrik3553]

"Actually, looking back, I'm schocked by how fast 30 years have passed. Perhaps it's because my days are so repetitive, I don't feel the passage of time." That terrifies me above all, one day waking up and realising, that I wasted my life and now it's to late to start living.

[@ronmaest]

That’s a reality for many. Think about that. How that contributes to the world?

[@estycki]

School can be so much like prison... of course kids feel traumatized

[@Iworkwithnitwits]

That is cruel that Tekushi could not adopt a dog.

[@someguywithabirdface2583]

I guess he has to find it in the streets.

[@uniquehorn1480]

"Dogs don't betray, unlike humans. And they are very honest"

[@maalat]

He has a lot of energy It would be difficult for him to be in a classroom with 20 other kids sitting down and doing sit work.

[@eels3658]

23:18 I'm really surprised they didn't mention Wabi-sabi (侘寂), it really seems like the artworks were inspired by it. Wabi-sabi is pretty much centered around the idea that imperfections makes something more unique and beautiful. Objects with cracks in them are often repaired using liquid gold leaf to highlight the imperfections, like in these artworks. Applying the Wabi-sabi mindset to hikikomori seems like a great way to raise awareness about them without increasing the stigma.

[@GOLDHenArmy]

This was amazing! Thank you. I worked with students with exceptionalities and was the most rewarding experience. I will forever be grateful and truly believe that they have impacted my life in such a positive way.

[@eidothea]

Being a sensitive person who used to be bullied, I could very well understand how much ‘safer’ it would seem to withdraw from society. It’s a form of self-protection. There are many ways we can alleviate this issue, the obvious ones being better mental health awareness and being more compassionate towards others. I think teaching kids about the importance of healthy self-love from a young age will also go a long way - I use to scoff at these things, but now I realise it’s so vital to building resilience and having the confidence to face the world. To all the hikikomori out there: every day, be proud of yourself for something that you have done, even if it’s something small like making tea. Show gratitude to something that you have. And remember, you are a valuable member of this world, and you are enough.

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

I understand my PLCPTSD more and more....

[@dodo12145]

I am a highly sensitive person. I get a sense of peace when I socialize less and spend more time in my home. I feel safe. Nobody can hurt my feelings. I can focus better on my goals. Being a highly sensitive person, I get triggered by others easily. I doubt myself more, get anxious, and stressed out.

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

@@dodo12145 Perhaps its clair-empathy

[@Thank-u-so-much-for-everything]

@@gothboschincarnate3931 What is Claire empathy? The basic definition of Clair empathy means “clear emotional feeling.” It's having a supernatural awareness of emotional energy. Clair empaths are extremely sensitive to the energetic vibrations of the emotions, attitudes, or physical ailments of people, places, animals, or objects.

[@gothboschincarnate3931]

@@Thank-u-so-much-for-everything Yes...you have described it perfectly! How could you describe it so well? oh? you have experienced this yourself?

[@tothepoint4080]

He is telling my life story , bulling by teachers

[@sickofit5547]

Me too

[@BalboaBaggins]

If society doesn't become more loving this is going to get way worse. No one wants to live in a hateful, stupid, meaningless society anymore.

[@tablescissors67]

This was very compassionately presented, well narrated, and beautifully filmed. Thank you. Good food for thought.

[@QuietlyCurious]

That artist is amazing. The Japanese are creative souls.

[@dasit6034]

I found it a bit weird they don't mention that what he's doing is called Kintsugi, repairing a broken item with gold. this way the broken repaired item is seen as being more beautiful than an otherwise intact object, thus their flaws making them more beautiful

[@23ofSeptember]

World: We must practice social distancing to save humanity! Hikikimori: Hold my beer!

[@mas8844]

🤣

[@EveryTimeV2]

I feel this.

[@Evg-gq9wz]

System of cruelty we are all playing on earth

[@ivorybow]

I don't know anything about Japan's mental health care, but it seems the obvious place to start is depression, anxiety, and agoraphobia. Many cultures have discipline and education systems that crush children's spirits. Babies are not born like that. Something damaging happens. I loved seeing the happy exuberant child whose father saved him from school.

[@moonhunter9993]

yes, they're spirits were broken...

[@anaholt4739]

Masato is a good-looking young man. I see talent in his yarn craft. I hope he can find a fulfilling life.

[@LowenKM]

OCD and ADHD are often also 'co-morbid' with Autism and Aspergers, which must be especially challenging in a culture that places so much importance on the intricacies of social communication and 'relationships'.

[@huldrrrr9486]

It's scary, because it seems like the West is starting to have the same problem. What is is about the modern world that makes us so lonely?

[@yessir4770]

I think our new found ability to be connected to anyone and everything at all times can be leveraged by some and detrimental to others. People who are naturally social can thrive on this interconnectedness whereas people who are not, are constantly reminded of what they are missing out on.

[@Vvonter]

Simple. Technology has brought us together with people who share our own interests no matter the distance, and by contrast we've become more habituated to push aside the people who we have close since they don't share our interests.

[@VooDooMaGicMan81]

@@Vvonter I don't think young people have problems finding others with shared interests in areas of close to them, that shouldn't be an issue even in small rural communities. It's more that they prioritize social standing and acceptance which provides narcissistic supply, the likes Instagram and Facebook have created an unattainable, materialistic ideal for how they feel they should live. Every other person I meet now tells me they're bi polar, autistic, politically in one camp or the other, anti this, pro that... Even at 14 - 25 years of age so many believe their view or group think is the only acceptable way. I mean, they have little life experience yet are a closed book, shutting out potential relationships due to the almost religious social belief system they worship. We're atomized.

[@alexfrank5331]

This is not a modern-world problem. It's reoccurring throughout multiple civilizations. Only difference is that modern tech allows people to withdraw and still survive very well.

[@vitikogaming2182]

We not design to live like this. Read the unabomber manisfesto. I know how it sounds