Japan's Young Are Now Its Loneliest Generation, Overtaking The Old. Why? | Insight | Full Episode

[@peteleng3075]

let's be honest, this is not a Japan only issue

[@ivanmatusic5540]

I share the sentiment as an european.

[@ssuwandi3240]

Japanese are introverts, this video sounds like being misunderstood. Am sure her parents agenda is the problem here but got hidden

[@LiquidSnakeSSJ4]

it is a serious problem in Japan. it happens elsewhere in the world, but not at the same scale as Japan

[@AverageAngel]

that's why i watched it, to get a sense of other places

[@Lana-xd7ey]

I heard s korea is worst

[@Anyone-yd9ju]

I am 35 now, have been single my whole life. I don't have close friends or any friends who care. In recent years I started solo travel and solo shopping. Eating alone and watching movies alone have been the norm. Sometimes when the feeling of loneliness hits, it's really painful.

[@ootts456]

then why don't you make friends or a bf/gf? I don't really see the point of being single if loneliness is painful edit: alright I thought being a loner was one's choice, then my question is have you asked someone out on a date or just to hang out to befriend them? Just do it at least once a week till you find someone. If you don't that's your choice

[@Anyone-yd9ju]

@@ootts456 If it was that easy such video would not have existed

[@desmondsim7881]

Being alone is less complicated, but then the loneliness

[@Live4Luv]

Please take care of yourself. It's hard, but try to make friends. It's easier said than done. But I wish you can find someone who can stay by your side.

[@musicmusic9215]

same here. 39, no girlfriend. painful

[@Thejourneyishard]

As a 23 year old male i can say that Being alone is so relaxing but feeling loneliness is depressing

[@Pemu137]

Ok, dear how do you feel?

[@harrellt1405]

if you want to grow as a person, you should try doing things that are out of your comfort zone. You already know the problem, now its up to you if you want to change it. Remember, nothing worth anything great is easy to do.

[@dl129uwr]

im 24 i can relate

[@furiousdestroyah9999]

​@@harrellt1405"just get lucky"

[@harrellt1405]

@@furiousdestroyah9999 what do you mean get lucky

[@jam_4523]

Better to be alone than in a group that makes you feel alone

[@cokechang]

True, but you should never stop trying until you find the right group of friends

[@astrahcat1212]

Well, true, but what they're talking about here is that, but to a much more extreme and unhealthy degree. Too much of anything isn't healthy. I would agree with you in the sense that, I'd argue that too much extraversion is actually way more unhealthy.

[@CyroLemon]

@@cokechang yes, because of networking

[@christucker7425]

From someone who used to say that, it's really our fault we don't speak up.

[@du39104]

Only made you feel alone?! They likely will make you suffer with bile intentions!!

[@tsarrite]

The irony of being in a place packed full of people but yet still being alone. Like stranded in an Ocean, "Water, water everywhere, and not a drop to drink"

[@riceball100]

... and so I shed tears to try to fill my empty cup, but to find the cup is a bottomless void (just thought of adding to the poetic feelings I got from your quote)

[@jamless2145]

"If I prioritize myself, my mother will suffer." I felt that.

[@SemekiIzuio]

Same it is a very strong cultural thing especially for those in the poverty line. Its difficult to change those mindsets

[@ValnirAesling]

i strongly believe in favoring the young people the old ones have to pave the way. my mother did it with me and i do it with my kids. the mother being okay with him not studying for his future is insane to me.

[@laturista1000]

残念 ながら この 問題 和 事実 です

[@geebee8989]

If you mother left your dad, if she break up with him, or divorce him, let her suffer and move on. If your father left or die then take care of her. Consequences are necessary in life to stop foolish indulgent choices.

[@lingth]

It's often expected in Asian family that if you hire a care giver instead of taking care of your parents that you are unfilial, and also it's costly to hire a caregiver and the sick parents can also reject it So if your parents need long term care, its ruin the career and restrict the life choices of their children.. they find it impossible to find a wife and marry as their partner may not want to take care of their sick parents also. You find it impossible to travel also.

[@Dr.Kraig_Ren]

I went into severe depression while living alone in city (with body aches, lost memory and no motivation to do ANYTHING. Getting out of bed was tiring. Eating food, bathing, everything was tiring). When I stopped going to job, my family finally took notice and I had to come back to my family for 1 year and live without doing my job. Now we live together in the city where I work. I was too late to realise, I think I haven't recovered fully. My memory has become a little weak. I have lost my hobbies and forgot how to draw. I can't remember much of my life. Please don't be like that. Search for the symptoms of depression and see if you have them before it's too late. I was an introvert, with no close friends and had a strong bond with my family. Living alone isn't for me.

[@atharvakpatil]

hope you're doing well now man

[@user-yq2sd3ep8k]

Hope u are doing well brother and also thanks for your advice I am also on the road like that. For the past year I've been trying to fix myself and It's getting better but not really. I may be also a little late but not unfixable. I willl try more . again Thanks

[@silvia7832]

I hope you are doing well now. 💗 God bless

[@noeminoemi1350]

It's really sad to read about good people suffering . There is nothing wrong with living with your family , people are different and some people are more comfortable living with their family as opposed to living alone.

[@Aeybiseediy]

Been almost the same situation as you, only that I was isolated for about 5 years, partly due to covid. Currently just entered back the working force, it sucks when all your colleagues and even superiors are 3-6 years younger, but I'm super grateful to finally managed to break free from my depression bubble. But the damage is still there, weak memory, slow reflex and cognitive function, easily fatigue body are the result of being passive for such a long period of time.. I feel like I was in a coma during those 5 depressing years I've lost. My family is the main reason I bounced back, guys if your family aren't abusive or just mildly toxic (mine are also toxic at times, but who doesnt?), please don't ever neglect them. My friends? From 10 down to 1. I'm grateful that life has shown me who my true friend is

[@Orbility]

The way I got myself out of being lonely is simple: I forced myself into uncomfortable situations where I HAD to interact with people. I've failed more times than I can count, but I've also gained some lifelong friends along the way. I'm a solitary person by nature and I enjoy being alone, but I recognize that I need socialization in order to be a functional person in society. As much as I like being alone, I don't like being an inactive person; I can't afford to be one. Long and short of it? Get out there and do something, anything. If you fail, do it again. Don't make the same mistakes. If you fail again, keep trying. At the end of the day, you either let the darkness win or you fight back and become stronger.

[@hahahahaha7824]

Yea, what people these days do not realize is that friendship takes effort and most importantly, you become uncomfortable with people if you do not talk to people because you try to control the situation at all times. This happens because when you are alone, you are able to control everything you do but in conversations, it doesn't work that way. So it becomes uncomfortable and awkward for people who don't talk to others. So the tip is, you gotta make the effort and talk to others. I call it pushing the social anxiety barrier. Practice it like you build muscle or exercise. The comfort level will go up and down depending on how much you interact with others. You will become uncomfortable again if you don't interact for some time but that's normal. It's just like muscle. If you don't use it, it's difficult to have strength. But if you go back at it, you realize it's not so bad and it doesn't kill you. So get out there and start pushing the anxiety boundary!

[@tommytomas-fr3sh]

you can be surrounded by many friends but you will still be lonely.

[@Orbility]

@@tommytomas-fr3sh What worked for me won’t work for everyone, but i thought I’d share.

[@Serso70]

@@tommytomas-fr3sh if you can be vulnerable and find and give emotional support to eachother instead of just surface level fun socializing, and have a healthy balance, you're never going to be as lonely with friends as without. but you have to know what you want out ot friendships too, and have a healthy way to communicate that without scaring people off

[@benkeith2077]

That worked for me too

[@brandonwalters4327]

The people we meet are largely inauthentic, not necessarily because they're maliciously deceptive but rather because everybody is so deeply afraid of not being accepted for who they are. I've found that a huge barrier to establishing connection is an unwillingness to be vulnerable that stems from influences like social media and popular culture that teach us to compare ourselves to others and that being our innately imperfect human selves isn't acceptable. You can't connect without vulnerabiltiy, but the message we're constantly bombarded with is that opening up isn't safe. We're just as alike as we are different but instead of rejoicing in our similarities and celebrating our uniqueness, we stay afraid of each other lest we should be misunderstood.

[@WohaliTheOneandOnly]

In some places, such as in the bible belt of US, it is religion that is isolating people because they hate on anyone "different" or outside of the societal norm. I've never felt so alone as when I have lived in the southern US.

[@hahahahaha7824]

This is especially an issue with people who had some traumatic experience with people. I think exercising vulnerability is good. Leave the toxic people and just be yourself and meet those who are okay.

[@sword_of_damocle5]

I've tried being authentic. Problem is I don't know who the "real" me is. That's when I realized that there is no real you. Every social circle you have sees you in a different way. In some, I'm seen as the talkative guy, in others as the shy introvert who rarely says anything. Humans are social chameleons, we might have a core personality but its social manifestation is never the same.

[@TheTW11]

I am Gen-x and I have housed my girlfriends teenage kids for the last 5 years. They are brilliant lads and I have no complaints. But their lives are spent entirely on the internet. They don't go out. None of their friends go out either. Lives are "virtual" today and it's not healthy.

[@halleffect5439]

no wonder birth rates are dropping

[@lxdead5585]

@@halleffect5439 it has nothing to do with that. Go, check and read about Calhoun "Mouse Utopia" experiment. People in well developed countries have it too good. Young folk have possibilities to meet and contact new people, problem is their attitude and psyche. Do You know that proverb? Easy come, easy goes. It's easy to get to know someone and it's even easier to cut the contact and ghost somebody. Young people care so much about their and other appearance that they don't even care about character, discovering more about other person. They are emotionally disconnected from others. Most of the time attitude towards women (simps, white knights, cucks) increases this problem. Majority of men ends up alone and lonely cuz young women care about dating/sleeping with the most handsome/wealthy/famous 10-5% of men (from the top) and don't even see others. It's not that women are lonely and alone cuz nobody is interested in them, its usually that fellas SHE is interested in, aren't interested in her :) This is not "generation Z, X" or whatever they want to call it. It's "lost generation" and it will be only worse. Young women will only realise how they were screwed over by all the feminist, woke a gendas right after they will hit 30 and still they will only blame men for their own decisions.

[@captainbear3110]

As someone who got backstabbed many times by friends and loved ones, I can understand why some people have trust issues and prefer to be alone. But it comes to a point where you will feel lonely at times and you wanted the human companionship. You give yourself another chance and find new friends, but soon to realise they are not your true friends. No one really cares about you. It's a harsh world out there

[@acidtdi]

Exactly how I live...

[@mistymistyrain]

I can relate to this.

[@likexchloe]

Exactly

[@harrellt1405]

thats how life is. life is a constant struggle and finally finding those precious people that are genuine makes them much more special.

[@Recuper8]

@@harrellt1405 they don't exist

[@bankruptWoodenSandals]

if people think its only japan, they are so wrong.

[@explorermike19]

It is not only Japan, but it is severe in Japan.

[@alditahervianto9179]

True

[@Mappster]

Its affecting everyone, its global.

[@Rainer125]

Its an issue everywhere and it’s because online dating and social media has skyrocketed womens standards into oblivion. Roughly 60% of japanese men are perma virgin incels if we don’t count prostitution as real sex then it‘s probably more like 80%. The issue is the same everywhere while the bottom 80% of men are either virgins or luck out once in a decade there isn’t a single woman that is single or didn’t have sex in the last 12 month. The top 10% of Chads all have a bodycount of 10+ mathematically proving that they simply have sex with 100% of the women while most men get nothing. This obviously causes loneliness and this problem will never be overcome unless women chose to stop getting pumped and dumped by exclusively the top 10% of dudes.

[@xlr8r171]

​@@Rainer125looks like the majority of men is sorted out by natural selection. How would one break through this process, when it's a function immanent to the human species?

[@Unknown_rbnx19]

Once you feel comfortable being alone, it becomes more addictive. Being alone means, your mind is not contaminated by society and its a beautiful thing.

[@gintonicx6]

Yes,but most people can't...

[@harrellt1405]

@@gintonicx6 i agree. We humans are social beings. While some people might be ok with being soloists, most are just alone because theyre afraid to interact due to many factors. But in an ideal world, if they can be popular or have genuine people around them, i doubt most people would say they would prefer being alone

[@ralone8314]

Being solitude and being alone it's two different things

[@asmilenotmeantforme]

you are in your 20s aren't you

[@Unknown_rbnx19]

@@asmilenotmeantforme in my late 30s

[@chiyaogeneshen2922]

A lot of videos about loneliness lately but no one really talks about how economic factors are clearly creating adversarial relationships between people; when things are rough and everyone is living on the edge, everyone is competition

[@hahahahaha7824]

South Korea is showing you the extreme version of that lol. I am sure places with high pop density is much like that as well.

[@Serso70]

we cant talk about that because questioning capitalism makes you a communist and a communist is essentially satan, i mean, they use red and stuff. we are only allowed to fight amongst eachother for the scraps and sometimes they pull a few of us up as to keep the rest of us under the illusion that there's some sort of light at the end of the tunnel in the way we setup our societes now

[@nuclease2739]

careful, you are 2 steps away from blaming neoliberalism and even capitalism ! (therefor becoming a woke leftism and being ridicule according to most of the internet).

[@D.2601]

Every doc about Japan & loneliness among youngsters in rich countries r always beating around the bush. They will blame the youngsters too but won’t talk about the elephant in the room that is this gen has no money to buy a home or think of starting a family…them r!ch have created conditions under which the rest can no longer reproduce they wanted us to go in a humane way.

[@D.2601]

Every doc about Japan & loneliness among youngsters in rich countries r always beating around the bush. They will blame the youngsters too but won’t talk about the elephant in the room that is this gen has no money to buy a home or think of starting a family…them rich have created conditions under which the rest can no longer reproduce they wanted us to go in a humane way.

[@jm7578]

This is not just a Japanese problem or South Korean problem is becoming a worldwide problem. Social media has allowed people to distance from each other and have indirect communications in place of direct communication. Also many societies have embraced a form of cynicism where we see other people as a threat or a problem or an issue, and we do not even give each other the benefit of the doubt, the excuse being that I give somebody the benefit of the doubt they can hurt me if you go through life like that, you will never know anybody you will never have any interactions you walk around with angry miserable look on your face. The reason I put it this way is because in my city in upstate New York I noticed that a lot of people are always alone all the time and they always look super angry and that’s not normal.

[@blackfades2grey]

I wish they would show a documentary like this on Japanese TV. Instead, they only show superficial programs and ignore controversial topics. In Japan, if you don’t talk about a problem, it doesn’t exist.

[@Mr.Raccooon]

Yes... and about mental illness for them its just an excuse.

[@nabilidr9011]

sadly happens everywhere not only in japan

[@larrenV2007]

Same with China too, they don't even want to discuss the dark side of such due to "Saving Face" issue.

[@a1with-a-kick919]

NOT only in Japan. it happens EVERYWHERE! you see it a lot in the USA also.... its called "swept under the rug". THIS is a SHARED PROBLEM around the world... if we just make it "their" problem... its never going to be solved.

[@cunnyman]

However, once you open the can of worms, it eventually becomes America. Nonstop egoistical nonsense. Specific topics must be tackled with extreme cautions and care.

[@jonathandavis8078]

I am lonely 24 hours a day I'm not in Japan so it's everywhere

[@Pemu137]

Hi, how can I reach you?

[@davida7229]

​@@Pemu137 why?

[@Si0370]

lmao pemu u tried to flirt with everyone feeling lonely in the chat comments

[@chocolatecookie8571]

@@Si0370 that is very rude of you to say such insulting words about a person who is reaching out offering their companionship.

[@endlessorbaggins8223]

@@chocolatecookie8571 Offering their companionship? Lol, like if a stranger would really care and post in many comments. Probably a bot. If not, then some scammer or religious freak that want to profit from someone "issues". I can't see anyone sane thiking another person in a youtube comment section asking the "do you want to be my friend" is someone honestly searching for a friend.

[@Dominus_Potatus]

Social Media is bad... like really bad. It shows you mostly rainbow and makes you envy with others, hence disatisfied with your own life. Always remember that people rarely shares bad moments in social media.

[@Dominus_Potatus]

I can relate a bit. In the past, when you are alone, you are forced to go outside and somehow you got "adopted" by that extremely extrovert and then you make relation. Today, there is just fewer activity for together, most modern activities can be done alone or simply online. And yeah... sometimes I hope I can share my activity with others, I am glad that I still have my little sister and parents to share with.

[@rokko_fable]

The world is 100% better without social media. It's not even a debate.

[@noyo1444]

@@rokko_fablefacts

[@J.A.Z-TheMortal]

​@@rokko_fableYup. The level of narcissistic behavior, materialism, infidelity, arrogance - you name it. Studies show all the worst human traits have skyrocketed since social media became a thing.

[@username59202]

Which is exactly why I quit social media many years ago.

[@world_of_paul6429]

I too am 35. I never intended to be so independent and do so many things by myself. I haven't had many relationships or anything very long term. My career is very male dominated. My job keeps me busy and there are very little opportunities to meet other potentials unfortunately. I long for meaningful relationships and connections but the hustle and bustle of the world often gets me down. So rather that truly isolate myself i tend to do the things i like such as eating out or seeing movies by myself. The loneliness can be down right crippling some days. I also see the years going by which is discouraging. Just trying my best and surviving. I hope to one day be in a better place. And definitely reciprocate any help I can give to others who experience this crippling loneliness. A meaningful connection could heal any wound and change someone's life.

[@Bunny11344]

I hope you’re able to find that special someone and I’m sure you will. I’m in a very female orientated job and I can’t stand them 😂 my bf keeps me sane. I think having a relationship when you’re ready more important than friends in the long run cause you can build a future together.

[@world_of_paul6429]

@@Bunny11344 Thank you for your encouragement! Sound insight. I won't give up. Doin my best to make it through these tough times.

[@meb5205]

The West is increasingly heading in the same direction: 'Don't double text'! Asking for hug? 'You're too needy and co-dependend!' Feeling like your partner shouldn't hang out all the time with someone of the other sex alone? 'You're controlling!' etc. Extreme individuality will result in mass loneliness and depression. Well done!

[@thunderrunner666]

true true have a hug 🫂 we'll get through this

[@bebebaba3442]

Exactly. It’s another reason why Japan lives in the future as it has many problems which the West begins to experience horribly

[@astrahcat1212]

Actually, Japan got this way by demanding that you don't have individuality. Bravery and individualism go hand in hand, and to go out an meet new people requires that kind of simple individuality. An overemphasis on fitting in and being part of the group, and not being an individual (Japanese society) seems to have resulted in these kind of scenarios such as the hikkikomori syndrom.

[@noinoimoon4295]

​@@astrahcat1212 just the things I wanted to say🙏

[@MichaelHarto]

the thing about technology is, people often forget that those who live through the invention of such technologies, use it to complement their daily lives. but those who are born into it, live and build their whole lives around it, as if their lives are dependent on it.

[@yashmahto8755]

That's deep

[@happycook6737]

Good point about digital natives vs non natives.

[@ichifish]

I'm an American permanent resident of Japan. In my experience and those of the mixed families around me the atmosphere for children can significantly inhibit communication skills. They aren't kidding about "rigid social norms," either. Japan is a very risk-adverse culture. Risks are seen as far more threatening than in almost every other developed country. Starting friendships or even conversations can be difficult for all but the most confident and conversation. My daughter is half-Japanese, and her communication ability - ability to start and maintain a conversation - in English and Japanese are starkly different, even though she's fluent in both languages. She often offers what I call "Japanese excuses" for not doing things with friends: instead of initiating something she considers all of the possible problems that might arise as 10x more significant than they are. In this environment screens become even more attractive and isolating. Many of my university students have stunted communication skills. They claim to be shy, but it's really a lack of experience. It doesn't help that society is still intensely gender-segregated, at least compared to the west. When I was young, in the 70s and 80s, it was unusual for boys and girls to be friends. Young people in the US today are far more likely to have friends of another gender, but in Japan it feels like it's 50 years ago. EDIT: Just to be clear, everyone here knows this, and there are many, many, wonderful people working on this issue. It's just really difficult to work against cultural norms, and it might be another generation before these problems are really dealt with.

[@saladass188]

おっさんがおっさん視点で若者を見て理解してる気になっている典型

[@Emc2Eggs]

Just bear in mind that the psychological age of Japanese is said to be about 13. Most of what you bring up here is beyond their comprehension beyond superficial level

[@xtr.7662]

​@@Emc2Eggsi mean youre kinda right japanese people are so innocent and childish big culture shock

[@methylmercury]

That's the reason why Japan is the way it is.

[@craiganczelowitz7225]

nailed it

[@volatilesky]

I feel bad for these people. I prefer to be alone - I hang out with the few friends I have, maybe once or twice a year. For the longest time I tried emulating the "social" lifestyle, but I found it draining and lead to a lot of dissatisfaction. It took quite a lot of personal searching until I realized I would rather make things by myself, than interact with others. But I also understand the emotional pain caused by not being able to find what you long for internally.

[@TurboBass]

"Women in their 20's are the loneliest" They're the only ones who are so forward about it. You think 20 year old dudes are gonna be telling anyone they are lonely? Like anyone would care? Dudes ain't sharing feelings like that, they just bury themselves in hobbies, work or worse things until they figure it out or die.

[@GoldenSW]

Very sad, but 100% true. People don't really care if you're a random average guy so why even bother complaining about it if it's not gonna change anything?

[@YokoshimaOfficial]

Ever since surviving 3 years of homelessness all alone, abandoned by everybody, I've grown accustomed to being my own companion, it's bittersweet... very enlightening, but with depression, the pain is somehow more excruciating than when I was homeless.

[@SkywalkerLegacy]

I don’t mind being lonely, I love being lonely actually. The pain hits when you are lonely within a large group of people.

[@___Danny___]

i was just explaining to my 10yr son this morning about someone being lonely among a big group of peoples , as if they are invisible.

[@angelobandal7112]

Then see a doctor.

[@aimichiko2378]

you mean you dont mind being alone.

[@zzzendyaz4208]

Im d same way. Im ok with a small group of friends but a large group drains me and makes me feel disconnected.

[@apakatanetizens]

Trueeeee

[@edilee5909]

Thank you for mentioning less full-time and more irregular work! This makes me feel so financially insecure that I never consider going outside and having to spend money that I might need in case of emergencies like medical expenses etc.

[@raff1584]

It seems that one of the biggest cause is technology which allows one to easily connect with people but also easily disconnect from them on a slight hint of discomfort or conflict. While in the past it is not easy to cut people off thus people learn to tolerate each other and handle conflicts, allowing connection to grow stronger.

[@Nisshio]

It's funny that social media is supposed to bring people together but also creates more gap on genuine relationships and bondings between people

[@isaza5716]

@@Nisshio I dont know... maybe it was just not so immanent because we just didnt have a comparison.

[@endlessorbaggins8223]

I know people that are in couple and that when they have conflicts they try to solve them by text messages. Because it is easier than communicating face to face with the other. Technology has made that. But, solving conflicts with text message is the worst communication channel you could use. It gives place to a lot of interpretations that cannot be easily adressed and most of the time it worsen the conflict. Virtual communication has worsen our communication skills. I would say when you communuicate virtually it is often more "superficial". I feel people have harder time to communicate in person on an authentic level with active listening and caing for wht the other say and express emotions.

[@Reismiilch]

yes, this.

[@JB52520]

I was alone before social media was a thing. I'm alone now. Before, I had no one to talk to. Now I have strangers I'll never see again. It's better than nothing.

[@augustvonmackensen9785]

Ohhhh… absolute beauty of coming home after work and there is nobody to annoy you with small talk, personal problems, questions, etc. Not having to explain anything to anyone. It is addictive !

[@Bunny11344]

You are my type of person! Totally relatable

[@Sushi-m3v]

It's very addictive that the idea of that changing at some point makes me shiver I wished I lived in Japan where that's considered normal and not seen as weird

[@meela6739]

n egoistic

[@arvinsim]

There is just no replacement for face-to-face, in person interaction. Most of us delude ourselves that online communication is enough.

[@konataizumi8350]

It was when i enjoyed my time alone and when i loved myself when i met the love of my life. I think we attract more people when we are happy with ourselves. Hope more people can experience the same someday

[@gintonicx6]

They are rare...

[@Chocolat___]

Very true, I've personally seen many people trying to find fulfilment through other people and that majorly always end in misery and sadness. First, be happy by yourself and construct an environment you're ok with. You will eventually attract people like you naturally that way.

[@aquiixo]

If I feel lonely at any point in time, I would just watch these kinds of videos, removing the hate from my fake friends

[@exploringapis4495]

With meta quest and Apple Vision Pro you will never feel lonely again

[@ernestojr.angeles9707]

😂😂 ​@@exploringapis4495

[@LuciThomasHardylover-qx6ts]

What a horrible idea! Go out darling and meet some REAL people! That's how you make friends. Join some classes,get involved in some conservation work, voluntary work. Anything that puts you in regular contract with real people and puts you in contact with people & places that have greater problems than your own. Good luck!

[@dennischen8887]

For all we know, we are already in a matrix!

[@oceanocean9234]

Joining circles increases acquaintance but not friendship@@LuciThomasHardylover-qx6ts

[@mkh9164]

Like a person here wrote . Loneliness is every where. Its in Asia, America, Africa & Europe. Its a pandemic..😢😢

[@jimone732]

Its not in africa like the rest of the world

[@Yun-Hee5]

South asia people didn’t feel lonely

[@Rainer125]

The worst is yet to come in this hyper capitalistic women only wanna date Chads situation. I gurantee you the new trend everywhere will be that women will prostitute themselves to make money to pay to meet Chads in host clubs. This will be the new norm.

[@elanita71]

​@Yun-Hee5 excuse me, how dare you to say that?

[@Yun-Hee5]

@@elanita71 south asia is a populated area. south asia has many people in every country so i think they have friends too. that's why they don't feel alone

[@Zeldafan1ify]

when I'm alone, i feel amazing, happy in my own world. I was always this way. My mom recalls me playing happily alone while the other kids were together at daycare. I was a toddler then. In every stage of my childhood, I enjoyed eating alone at lunch or retreating to an isolated area after school. But now, as soon as I'm surrounded by a group of people, or in a crowded place, or any environment that is designed for socializing, the painful loneliness hits me. There are so many people in one place, yet I have no one to talk to. No one is connected to me. I struggle with this phenomena, because I want to explore the real world and therefore expand the universe of my "alone"ness, like visiting a foreign country and exploring the cities alone. Yet it's impossible to shake the loneliness away when these cities are filled with so many people, primarily people in groups or couples, families etc. I feel like a living ghost: not invisible enough to slip unseen, yet not solid enough to interact with people and feel like I belong in that interaction.

[@stellarv5689]

Its better to be alone than in a relationship where you are not valued.

[@silverlily4681]

You did it to yourself

[@NOTHING-AT-ALL.]

There are many abandoned citys around the world my friend

[@Skateboardfreakist]

well i don't know you but in my experience i also really enjoyed solo travelling. I don't really like groups, but many times i've found one person that also likes to also be alone or just with 1 other person. So then it's super easy to connect, we are both happy to not talk too much, but still we can share an experience together. I also really like groups because in groups it's hard to be honest and to have a good experience, since it's more shallow

[@themangomanjuice]

As a 24 year old West African Black man myself born and raised in the United States who grew up with West African immigrant parents from Ghana, I was always quite different from most people that I knew in school so I just kept to myself for the most part. I have always been a lifelong nerd ever since I was 2 years old and I have always been obsessed with video games, everything Nintendo, anime, and manga. My half Vietnamese childhood best friend to this day ever since I was 2 and he was a baby has always been my main friend outside of my family since I am extremely close to my mother with me being a lifelong momma’s boy. I also am close to my older sister. Although I do get very lonely at times I have fully embraced being single for the rest my life until my death if that is what life has for me, because at least as a quiet person I won’t have to worry about anyone picking a fight with me over random things so I find lifelong peace in my solitude.

[@SiriusTrance]

I studied and work in japan for almost a decade , loneliness in Japan is very contagious can it could hit you really hard before you even knew it.

[@zara-zq1oi]

yeah your profile picture is a big part of it! anime and child fetishisation...

[@vekanup8573]

Its a beautiful documentary to reflect the effects of loneliness, All I had is tears watching in, Thanks for getting this topic to everyone's notice. ♥

[@ShikokuFoodForest]

I am a Canadian living in the countryside of Southern Japan. The hardest part of living in Japan is the social isolation. I have lived in Japan for over 14 years and do not have a single friend here.

[@kingmaafa120]

B blessed

[@Pemu137]

Hi dear, how you doing?

[@Pemu137]

Hi dear, how you doing?

[@koalatheworld]

Are you serious? 14 years and not a single friend??? Why are you still in Japan? 😢

[@gipson123]

it is difficult, because even a foreign resident will never "be japanese".

[@JafoTHEgreat]

37. I've been in a state of loneliness for 10+ years. I wish I could meet someone and connect, even if it was only for a little bit. They don't have to be younger.

[@avidtraveller]

Thank you, narrator, for emphasizing that social media followership does not equate to friendship. This was a HUGE issue starting with Facebook. People felt a sense of accomplishment when they shared how many people followed their page, or the theme, or their ideas but it means nothing. Social media is social distancing.

[@YourHineyness]

"Social media is social distancing." That is profound. The Internet was advertised as a way to connect people and bring them closer together. Instead it has had the opposite effect. Now people can have "friends" in Germany, Australia and South Africa but not know their next-door neighbor's name.

[@allengina1091]

Not only in Japan. This voice narrating is also saying in the Philippines my country like the loneliest youth, also in South Korea , America , China, and what else, so on .What a hell. Can you just say . The whole world is now getting individualistic. I will give you my 100 reasons.

[@MrRockduke]

Philippines young’s are lonely? I don’t think so…

[@Annie640]

The US is far less lonely than Japan. There are shut-ins in every country, but nowhere near on the same scale as Japan. The society in the US fosters more connection, comparatively. Not to say the US is perfect either of course, but it’s definitely not a similar level.

[@starward0997]

​@@MrRockdukeshe def in delulu for saying that part

[@willy_le_zed]

I made so many friends in philippines i cannot count them

[@DorothyCer]

I love people. I cherish every moment listening to them, seeing how unique they are make me happy. People are like flowers, you give them your time and they will blossom! When I was in Japan, as a tourist of course, with my big husband and two talkative kids the only people that would chat with us were the one who visited US or Europe. They were more confident to talk to us because they spoke good English. This happened in Tepia Museum where a young guy (a doctorate degree student) told us he spent some time in Hawaii. Waiting in front of the line to eat katsu lunch (somewhere in Ueno) an older gentleman started chatting with us. He was also in the US, and we had a great one hour long conversation while waiting for a spot in the restaurant. In Nagoya, near Science Museum a lady asked us if we needed help (me checking the map trying to figure out how to get to the nearest shrine) and we spent an hour chatting with her. She also lived in the US. In Kyoto, I met a guy who just wanted to practice his English. Same on Nakasendo trail, an older gentleman was joking that the Japanese bears (who tend to share the trail with hikers) like American meat only! Japanese are the most polite, gentle and hardworking people I have ever met. I wish to go back.

[@yslee1401]

As a tourist to Japan, I felt that its citizens are probably the most disciplined group I have seen anywhere in the world. They will pick up rubbish left behind accidentally by others and will queue up even at busy train stations

[@Mr.Raccooon]

They are learned since war 😂

[@naj027]

@@Mr.Raccooon they honor discipline since Samurai days

[@JamieBar]

​@@naj027 During the samurai days, politeness was wnforced by the sword

[@Hhhh22222-w]

​@@JamieBar yeah and it stuck, better politeness by the sword over Christianity

[@EvaBrown-k2p]

Yes but nanny state is hell

[@Zetos]

I think we all lost the ability to socialize properly due to technology.

[@gigasflare]

this is so true. if u remember back in the 80s or 90s we used to hangout outside a lot and more human to human interaction.

[@BSenta]

Its not tech

[@DashmirMejdi]

Nah man I know many from older generations who have been lonely for so long

[@Bunny11344]

I don’t think so I think technology could be used for good. It brought my relationship with my parents closer as we didn’t have the best relationship growing up. We text everyday and send to stay connected. Also I grew up before technology took off, there was as much toxicity then as there is now

[@noahlapuz3853]

Marvelous! Praying to all those who aare impaacted by loneliness and disconnection.

[@RDd188]

Loneliness is being aware of the space around you, Solitude is being in union with space around you. I read this beautiful quote the other day.

[@modoodles]

tbh coming from a turbulent past with so much abuse and bad relationships, being alone makes me so much happier

[@harrellt1405]

im sorry about ur past experience, hopefully u find the right person someday.

[@bangrojai4868]

Making family is hard thing. Some peoole just need to be forced to get married. Like me and my ex-wife. I was tricked to get married. My wife too. The different was, i can accept the reason why my family force me, but not my wife. She demanded "love". There is no "love" without pain. She keep telling me that she doesnt love me. Something she should say before we got married. After 1 and half year of patient, i run away from her. We are in mid 30, we werenot in position to pick true love.

[@zainalismail6798]

Stay strong

[@astrahcat1212]

'Peaceful' is a better word. Superficial social media people have abused the word 'happy' and 'happiness' so much with their crazy eyed fake smiles it's lost it's meaning.

[@modoodles]

@@astrahcat1212 Yeah, being alone is peaceful. You do everything at your own pace and you get to learn who you are separate from other people

[@kennyng2730]

I have friends who always take very beautiful selfies .. have thousandsssss of likes etc on their Instagram and stuffs... They are not unattractive people... But they are lonely. It's really weird as it would seem like they are well loved and have many friends. It's a really weird world we are living in right now. The world is sick.

[@dafafaaf7679]

Lern Basic psychology. Most of us (i’m not live in Japan) grown up in dysfunctional family. Nowdays people can looking for help and use psychoteraphy ❤

[@bangrojai4868]

It is the peak of capitalism. Fake wealthy nations. One ultra rich people and 9 poor people isnot a rich country. People today, mostly, over work to get so little money, we are no longer have time to really socialize, to really enjoy our hard work. We got very less money with our hard work. Payment after payment. We broke. We left alone, just to save our own life. Everybody for himself now.

[@Mwoods2272]

Because most of these people equate clicks and subs as friends which they are not.

[@FroggyTWrite]

the world is a strange place, and social media is shallow. what do you like to do in your spare time?

[@earlysda]

Jesus Christ is the only one who can heal us completely.

[@huanghermann5207]

Japan has created a very strange nation in which people do want to have anything to do with others and don't want to give any trouble to others meaning others should also not give them any trouble.

[@swilhelm3180]

Another huge problem with the online world is it makes it seem as if there's always someone better just around the corner. So we treat people with less value because they seem more disposable to us. This is a worldwide problem.

[@simonphoenix3018]

I'm a fifty year old man and as I got older I became more a lone wolf who likes to do my own thing. I have zero friends now, just people I say hello to here/there, but there is no one close to discuss things with and that is how I like it. At school/college/uni I was of the popular kids but in my late 20s I'd had enough of my circle of friends as it was a fake/boring life revolving around bars/pubs and I'd had my fill, it was time to move on. I've worked remotely for years and I do not miss the hassle of commuting nor the mind numbing office politics nonsense and people wanting to bore me stupid telling me about what they did at the weekend. I spend my free time climbing/bouldering, cycling or walking in the countryside where I can switch off from the rat race and the one up man ship that goes with it. So to all the younger ones on here, understand that life isn't a one size fits all and that happiness isn't just having lots of friends or being a couple as I've known plenty of people in loveless relationships/marriages. Enjoy your short time on this planet (time really does fly), don't try and compete with others as it will tire you out and be aware you will evolve as an individual and your likes/dislikes will change. Spend time enjoying nature and appreciating all that is around you, be more in the moment I guess and for Gods sake put the likes of Instagram/TikTok etc to one side as it is complete and utter drivel! If you can afford it, make an effort to see different parts of the world or if that is financially not possible explore different parts of the city or country you live in and don't make an itinerary, just take a left or right and see what you find. Go and explore and allow yourself to be surprised and impressed.

[@damianwong7503]

Wise words. Thank you for sharing

[@kzm-cb5mr]

I can feel the guy caring for his mom. Only me and my ageing mom were left at home. All of the responsibilities from financial stuff to cleaning were left on me. Good thing is that I'm working from home for most of the days. But also due to this, my social life became almost zero, even mere going out with colleagues became almost impossible. I wish to get into a relationship, but due to many responsibilities at home, I can't even consider it at the moment.

[@dilyaTebya]

Depending on where you are, there are some government daycare for elderly. You can drop off your mother during office hours, and pick up afterwards. Over there, your mother can find new friends and do some activities. You can take this time for yourself too. Not necessarily everyday, but a few days in a week will be helpful for the elderly parent to meet new people and exercise, and for the caretaker to take a breather

[@JacquilynSaito]

@@dilyaTebyaThere are also programs run by non-profits or church groups which provide respite care. Check with your city or county’s department of aging services.

[@BrokenSoulConfession]

My friend is similar... But he has had a beneficial solution. He has been active on pen pal app (to not be a shameless marketing, let's just say the app's name means Despacio in Spanish 😅). It's different to real life interaction, yes. But at least he could have plenty of friends while also expanding his horizons about what is happening in the world. You should try it. Perhaps the correspondence there will inspire you to step forward further irl too 🙂🙏🏻

[@3xmen]

@@dilyaTebyabest advice ever!

[@lordtette]

parentification in the form of being a young carer is so tough. These kids deserve a lot of support

[@monkeyguy80]

Loneliness is not only in Japan, is Worldwide Loneliness issue ya! 🙁🤷🏻‍♂️

[@laoch5658]

Its you who chooses to be lonely

[@razer5495]

​@@laoch5658 when everyone around you are just trying to somehow use you for themselves and beiing a fake friend then yeah they have no other options but to stay alone

[@NKTapas]

Nah not in Odisha

[@hikidelta]

Kebanyakan maen hp

[@smithjerry470]

While, I'm enjoy to be alone, I'm exhausted to get along with others.

[@endlessorbaggins8223]

This is called Introversion. Introverts can feel tired just to be in a social context where there is a lot of conversations going on. I am an introvert and only have few friends that I don't see very often. One of my friend is very talkative. I may not place a single word, he could talk without interruption the whole time i am with him. Often I feel exhausted after seeing him just because of that steady chatting he does. And I learned this is tiresome to me because I do active listening. I have developped good memory to retain past conversations. Doing active listening for 1-2-3 hours straight is taking a lot of information and can indeed be exhausting.

[@rodrigofreitas3288]

@@endlessorbaggins8223 I also think I'm an introvert. I've found that spending too much time talking to people can make you feel forgetful and distracted.

[@3xmen]

Yes sometimes being alone is good but not all the time! u need some1 to make meaning to life than being 4evr alone….

[@JeffreyClark-j4b]

Im 41. Im a songle man and ive never even had a girlfriend. My family passed away so now its literally just me left. Im the last of my line and im always alone. Its not.jist japan. Its not that i choose to be. Its just im not good enough for most Americans apparently. All i do is work which is fine and im not lonely. You get used to it. I dont have moments where it effects me. Although i do wish for a woman to date and one day marry but i feel its to late for me now. So instead of doubting myself. I focus on work. At least i can be productive even if im going to be alone forever.

[@hard.to.define]

It's never too late. You can still meet someone.

[@JeffreyClark-j4b]

@@hard.to.define one day perhaps. But it's ok if it never happens. I'm ok with or without. But it would be nice.

[@CrAzYpotpie]

​​@@JeffreyClark-j4bYou typed all of that first comment and still think you are "okay with or without?" It is quite clear you aren't. The people okay with being alone don't go around announcing that and how lonely they feel, they just do it.

[@JeffreyClark-j4b]

@@CrAzYpotpie you can say that and you might be right. But I'm good either way. Just giving my opinion on the glorious platform in the eternal internet

[@JeffreyClark-j4b]

@@CrAzYpotpie but I'm honestly ok with or without. I work I live so it's all good. It is what it is

[@user-qn7es2ci8e]

High cost of living pushes this youngster to marry at the later age and some may choose to stay alone.

[@DarylSolis]

I don't depend on others for socializing. People just let you down. I've lived this solo katsu style for over 15 years. I lived in Japan for 9 years too, and Japan is designed for this solo katsu style. I love Japan for that. Learning to be alone, but not feel lonely is the best thing you can do for yourself.

[@isaza5716]

I think the same. I'm "alone" since I moved here for a study abraod and I f****** dont want to go back -_-

[@Bofia817]

You’re sick

[@AndreMalone-wp8vq]

Yup. There are two types of humens , Those who feel lonely and those who don't feel lonely but complete and don't need another to stimulate his existence.

[@cokechang]

If you can cope with it, more power to you, but a lot of others couldn’t, and in general it’s not healthy for the society to normalize loneliness.

[@AndreMalone-wp8vq]

@@cokechang Not cope, only complete.

[@jff757]

This mass loneliness of the youth is not just in Japan, but in a lot of affluent countries. It's a side-effect of a good and peaceful society with internet technology. Our societies on earth is the best it's been in centuries. Don't believe me? Read history books. Read about the atrocities, wars, financial crises, violence, ignorance that our societies endured and matured through. And they didn't have internet back then. Bottom line, we've become soft due to affluence. A lot of us live in a level of comfort that our existence has never experienced before and it caused our brains and hormones to not function the way we had hoped.

[@SwitchFoot2007]

Whats being overlooked is how society uses the adjective: LONELY LONLINESS - and use it so presumptuously. The ignorance of it is phenomenal.

[@WCCXtra]

It's more than that. The loss of community and connection begins the moment the parent has to return to work. It's severed when people move away from the communities they were born and raised in. It breaks each year a child goes to a new grade that has different students in the class to befriend. For most of human history we lived in smaller groups and had more people in which we formed lifelong connections with. Now we move from our homes (towns, states, countries) for a "better life", which usually just means more of the material.

[@WohaliTheOneandOnly]

@@WCCXtra Yes! Finally someone else in the world sees this. I've always thought the devastation started when families had to move because of work or housing costs and family loses ties to the community they grew up in. I remember changing elementary schools and having to start over making friends and not relating to kids in a bigger town. Then starting middle school and high school city officials made laws that split us kids up from our friends where we did not transfer to the same schools as the other kids we knew because of the side of town we lived on. Then you graduate and start working or go to college and the cycle repeats itself many times. I ended up moving cross country twice and am no longer near the people I grew up around, but most of them are not there anymore either anyway. People have no ties to community anymore and mostly it's because of economics and politics deciding our fate.

[@chess1118]

Must do a series on Singapore

[@aquiixo]

Yes, I would do the survey if I have time and share story’s on the votes

[@TheReiz88]

Singapore isnt that bad. Yet.

[@larrenV2007]

@@TheReiz88 Soon in 10-17 years time!

[@KatJade269]

@@larrenV2007May not be. The culture are different. Singapore vs Japan.

[@nah131]

Singapore is not that extreme compared to Japan and South Korea.

[@PeterCruze-f1u]

Young people are lunatics nowadays. I'm 37, and when I talk with 20 some year old co-workers, I can't understand them at all. I think social media Perverted their sense of reality and how normal life works.

[@killswitch6361]

Or you're just getting old, happens to everyone.

[@hahahahaha7824]

shitty economy, too much SNS, there is a reason why all IT giant CEOs never let their children have smart phones until certain age. The new generation just has their brains all fucked up cuz of the dopamine rushes and shitty values. I wouldn't blame them. I would be just like them if I had all those things...

[@Moodboard39]

​@@killswitch6361lol

[@portraitofman2063]

This is true. The level of propaganda they've consumed and been fed is off the chain.

[@coreypayne9401]

A loneliness epidemic amongst the young is happening all over the West too, just for (mostly) different reasons

[@addicted2me]

Being alone and feeling lonely is two separate things. Being alone is loving the space but still does things normally,just on our own Like me.and I don’t mind random chats with strangers when I’m outside and about But I prefer my own space and time to do my things without being pressured to entertain anyone or follow anyone’s pace.. But I DO love connecting with people who I feel comfortable with. Been like this ever since back when and I’m going to be 42 this August,still happy and contented. Very very rare I get the feeling of lonely cos I do feel if there is someone that understand that’s good if not...oh well Being said that it’s not that nobody wants to be friends with me,just that I love to distance myself unless I find the person comfy Being lonely is always feeling alone or even get depressed and the feeling of needing attention. With that said. Why not we all be lonely together? We can connect and chat be friends. Cos no one will understand the way u are rather than the person who is going the same situation😊

[@ahmedoji9608]

During my 3 years stay in Japan, the moment I stepped in I quickly realize there's this immense yet hidden social pressure the Japanese society put on you that I, as a foreigner, could even feel at that time. Being seen different is hard and people will indirectly avoid you in social situations and relationships. On top of that, the indirect and harsh judgmental culture also shame people for even doing a slight mistake that will ruin their career forever. Added with social media and internet, they both amplify the problems that already exist for so long, emerged from its own root of the Japanese culture. It's such a shame that the society deemed as collective could turn out into something like this in the postmodern era

[@mlancholia3920]

I think at this point its a worldwide epidemic, I'm 28 and have to say adulthood is so lonely however it made me want to travel more and see the world while I still have the strength to do it. I might be trying to compensate my loneliness but I guess its better than nothing

[@kyotoben610]

They did mention this is a trend around the world. The focus of this video is Japan because it is far more acute in Japan.

[@Pottmolch]

do it man, solo travelling is great. you just go someplace and do whatever you feel like with noone to wait for or coordinate with or any of that. when I'm on holiday is the only time of the year I feel at peace for more than a few minutes

[@harrisbrownnurses]

We all here for the same reason lets form a group... Make Friends and build Relationships...

[@artificiyal]

being alone with your thoughts is the most freeing feeling

[@reuby6726]

I always bring this up, if 99% of mammals in the wild require to be in groups to survive or have quality of life meaning we are also part of that equation since we are mammals as well

[@DarkSpartan343]

This often gets misunderstood. A "social species" means you rely on other members to survive. We're still a social species. If you don't hunt a grow your own food, didn't build your own house, visit the doctor, and basically do anything that isn't self sufficient homesteading, then you're still part of a group. We just don't gossip with each other like we used to.

[@antman7673]

When you use the supermarket and live in a house with electricity and flowing water, you are most definitely participating in society. Communication and connection to other people is valuable, but not essential for survival. Coma patients are still surviving with no connections to their surroundings.

[@reuby6726]

@@antman7673 Wrong, it is essential because we are social beings and always have been The number 1 mortality in the world is loneliness because it leads to other sickness and diseases A coma patience isn't aware because they're not concious

[@reuby6726]

@@DarkSpartan343 Spot on

[@DarkSpartan343]

@@reuby6726 When you say loneliness causes mortality what is the actual driving factor? Like, It's much more likely that broke, ugly, short, disfigured people with behavioral problems will be lonely than it is tall, attractive, wealthy, well adjusted people. Wouldn't it be those negative traits leading to the correlation with sickness and disease.

[@nsbhagwat]

Just can't imagine living without friends and family. I love watching shows on NHK World specially about the work culture, the society, manners etc etc, one thing I have noticed in the programs is the pressure on individuals of "what will the society think about me" if I sit on the train in a different way, if I eat while I walk, if I do not greet the person in a specific way. In most offices you have a hierarchical structure so if your boss is working and I want to leave at 6 pm, what will he think, what will others think. Then there is overworking in office. So i get a sense that an individual is always under a burden, a mental pressure.

[@pog-be3gq]

Unfortunately, in Japan, you can only go home at 6pm if you're part-time. You're lonely because you're not donating. In Japanese, that's called 給料泥棒salary theft.

[@Moodboard39]

​@@pog-be3gqwtf. I say Fu, going home. Drink with someone else

[@NewData-ly4ck]

I am always alone, but I rarely feel lonely. The thing is, if you haven't been with anyone for so long, your brain just forgets how it feels to be with someone. I am 31, my aging parents are starting to ask for money. Everytime I call my mother, she blames me for being irresponsible (I have given her lots of money this year, but probably she wants me to call her more often and give money more consistantly). I begin to feel that deep relationship is just source of burden and shackles. So I don't feel too bad for being alone, and I don't envy those that get married. Imagine being with someone and every now and then, she would call you irresponsible.

[@isaza5716]

I cut of my family a year ago and since then I'm feeling so free. Relationships can be a burden as you said. I can relate to that.

[@Bunny11344]

Mother in laws are a burden but your own parents are our responsibility

[@isaza5716]

@@Bunny11344 What? No, definitely not ^^. I'm not responsible for my parents. Especially when they are just bad people...

[@SkyHiltribe]

It's not just Japan. It's an issue all over the world where social media exists. I remembered 20 yrs ago, it used to be the norm for a guy to walk up to a girl and strike a conversation asking for her number. Nowadays, if you do that, you'll be looked upon as some creep. If you're lucky, you'll get scowled by that woman and walk away feeling like you've done something wrong. Worse case, that person will call the cops accusing you of verbal harassment. It'd seem the younger generation doesn't need a partner or friend. Their way of making friends is through social media.

[@richardscathouse]

I'm sixty. That's all I ever do

[@user-vc2up9ys6v]

severe inflation, dating apps, social media, modern day feminism, and simps have caused this

[@deeb3272]

connected but disconnected at the same time

[@alvinbarbasa1917]

back when cellphones, internet and social media didn't exist... humans interacted way more - there was no other way, especially for kids

[@hahahahaha7824]

The research studies have shown time and time again that SNS actually has isolated people more.

[@comba06]

Not just Japan everywhere. Key things are streaming and smartphones and post covid effect; meaning everything in daily life, less buffers in place to remedy loneliness for those alone. No, zoom and technology doesn’t replace real physical 3d contact. Even the ability to browse for DVDs and CDs; instead of looking online; this all helps mitigate loneliness. With previous internet technology, you still had to go out and face the world to get stuff done…mitigating partially isolation..

[@johnlesoudeur3653]

Yes even, google maps etc means that you do not have to ask people the way or whether there is a local cafe nearby etc.

[@Lmi.N]

Time to being Alone is Like a blessing for Introvert people.

[@kubli365]

a socially inept person typed this^

[@Kamikaze_Edits]

@@OOL-UV2 i totally get your point but have you ever considered that you may be with wrong people ? not everyone is bossy or a jerk you know...im just saying that isolating yourself completely is a bad baddd idea bro..buttt livin in solitude is alright as long as you dont feel lonely

[@OrpheusVA]

I've been fighting depression, Dysthymia, anxiety and chronic loneliness since I was around 10 years old. Over the years I managed to find my voice - literally, as a VA - and as a mental health advocate. I feel really strongly about the issue in Japan, not because it's a Japan-only issue, but I think it's so extreme over there... Wish I could do something to help. Documentaries like this one are so important. So thank you.

[@drosera8943]

I really appreciate that women were interviewed for this documentary. Thank you.

[@shuilong52]

The root cause of this loneliness is the high behavioral benchmark and high cost of living. Small space usually means no room to share with another person and no impetus for production of baby. This force people to look inward and builds a wall around themself.

[@nitroxide17]

This is so sad. I live in North America and I can definitely relate!

[@SyntaxScout]

There is always someone good waiting for you,never close your doors,humans are incredible creatures,fragile,but amazing,remember that,you are unique.

[@TheEternalElir]

That guy who looked after his mom is so cool. Reminds me of Asmongold, he done the same thing. Loved his mom more than anything. Very pure hearted

[@franksu3420]

Because since the first day of schooling , we know who sit in the same room will be your future opponents , if you want to be successful you must beat him or her ,there is no cooperation no true friendship, just competition.

[@putrakudus5198]

Competition = No Colaboration = Yes

[@rodrigofreitas3288]

You don't develop the skills necessary to use for cooperation out of thin air my friend. Competition is essential to improve ourselves.

[@nekoshark2525]

I'm Japanese. That seems right, but it's wrong. To be honest, the entrance exam competition in Japan is not as intense as in Korea or China. Of course, there are people who place a lot of emphasis on studying, but there are many people who don't really care about that and instead focus their efforts on club activities and playing with friends. Japan has a club system where you can gain eternal friendships and learn the importance of teamwork and the value of friends. At sports days and school festivals, my classmates and I try our best to win. However, some people have dark personalities and cannot adapt to this environment.

[@johnsomn2148]

US here . Coming from a family of 11kids, many different personalities especially my 5 sisters. My 5 brothers gave me a view of the male mindset again different personalities and behaviors. I would be what is called today a " nerd" , but an active observant about other people. During the 70s while working atva public teaching hospital there were many foreign medical professionals. Even in the lab settings as a pathology resident if analyzers or any lab equipment went down ,they would wonder while most of the lab techs could repair them. They had no concepts as a pathologist you are responsible for the lab operations, including maintenance, how the equipment works,etc. We were amazed that in their medical training didn't include a business component. Just reviewing this presentation, they still need to learn social interaction ,accepting help also asking for help.

[@1984npk]

I keep seeing similar comments from foreigners living in Japan. The social dynamics here make it difficult for casual interactions to develop any relationship/friendship

[@thehealerslm]

It’s pathetic but whatever. A sick society they have

[@nekoshark2525]

​@@thehealerslm正直、日本人自身が元々人と距離を置いて本当に信頼出来る人にしか心を開かないからこれも関係してそう。もちろん明るい人も沢山いるけどね😂この動画の例は最悪だと思う。

[@clarence_illust]

This concept of solo katsu is very accurate even outside of Japan. In China, we have restaurants aimed at single customers where there would be dividers (stalls or rooms even) between each customer. I think I've also seen an anime-themed one where they decorate each stall according to different anime shows. Personally, I really like this concept because it feels peaceful eating alone, and I do need that time often. Being alone feels painful sometimes, but I also enjoy it when I need a break from all the chaos in society.

[@explorermike19]

As a world traveler and as someone who has lived in Japan, I truly believe that Japan is the loneliest country in the world and that many/most Japanese people suffer terribly from loneliness. Japanese people are raised and trained to be part of a group. They identify with their group and they depend on their group for their social and emotional needs and support. Over the past several decades, the connections to groups and friends has eroded and Japanese people have become isolated.

[@Mark-mo7rv]

Me most of the time I choose to be alone and I'm happy no one is disturbing me. Loneliness is just a choice. There is a lot of things to do even your alone no need for a companion.

[@endlessorbaggins8223]

You fell like that because you probably are an introvert. But, there is extraverts out there and for them being lonely is really hard. Introvertness and extravertness is not a choice but a personnality trait. Yes one could work on themsleves to be a bit more introvert or extravert. But, studies have shown that introverts and extraverts have distinct brain structures. An extravert cannot become 100% introvert, and vice=versa, no matter how hard they would try.

[@Moodboard39]

​@@endlessorbaggins8223exactly

[@Trace7173]

I recently returned home to the U.S. after living in Japan for the last 3 years. I noticed right away that none of the Japanese people I worked with were married and were not dating anyone. The women were very beautiful and stylish and they were fun when I would socialize with them. But it was like a invisible line that they never crossed. Their whole vibe was, 'you are a friend and that's all' Maybe because I was a foreigner, but they didn't date Japanese guys either. They are voluntary celibate and seemed content with going to Disney or dinner with their female friends. I knew my place with them, and it was firmly in the friendzone..The whole generation is in the friendzone or incels

[@herbertthewaterrat]

The Japanese need more forceful lovers. Fortune favors the bold not the meek. Their addiction to tech has made them weak.

[@aeroAdvocate]

They aren't celibate. Their sexual life is transactional and arranged online or at clubs designed to meet guys for just this purpose, be it a host club or more explicit.

[@bro918]

@@aeroAdvocate So some of the women are paying for sex/intimacy? That is absurd

[@Serso70]

@@aeroAdvocate in a strange way as a friend you are higher up on the ranking in importance in their life than these transactional relationships with hosts or sex workers, but their mindset is freedom to do what they please is more important than creating real relationships. it's not that they don't vallue him, or are disrespecting him perse, and he shouldn't feel bad about it perse, they might still like or care about you, but they care more about their freedom from responsibilities and expectations in a relationship. but this is japan we're talking about, in a way i understand it because japan has a very rigid work and educational culture, and life is expensive, starting a family is expensive, and it brings more restrictive elements into your life where there is already a lot of cultural and societal restrictions. it's fucked up, but i can sort of understand it. in the west that's not the case though. it's more a self-centered individualistic mentality here. because we rarely live through all these restrictive cultural and societal issues the same way japanese do. we already have too much freedom imo

[@user-vc2up9ys6v]

no, it's that they want chad only. Social media has enbaled women too much

[@Radiancegrace]

I feel sad watching this. Times of loneliness are expected yet this is eye opening for me. So young not to be enjoying intimacy with trusted friends. This has my head shaking and hadn’t ever considered this could be an issue for a culture

[@Hitokage]

This shows me how important it is to be kind and attentive to others in today's world. How important it is to sometimes just leave our comfort zones and talk to others.

[@irmalair4730]

I was lonely where I lived and bad at socializing, I'm still bad at it and I realised I prefer being alone most of the time. I started studying in a place which is not my native, and the people here just talk to you more, so it's hard to be lonely. So to all the lonely peeps, try talking to ur neighbours and give food to your delivery person. Or move to a location with social people. Friendships can literally start from anywhere

[@mediahkm]

As a Korean, this video is funny. Korea is statistically several times more serious than Japan. They should make a Korean loneliness special, not Japanese.

[@hahahahaha7824]

One famous writer already did a piece on how mind bogglingly depressing South Korea is and called it the most depressing society in the world which made the 9 o'clock news on all news channels. hehe... We finally beat Japan in just about everything including dying as a nation.

[@user-co5ri8dp_978]

It's difficult to eat out eating alone in Korea. Gets attention.

[@Moodboard39]

​@@user-co5ri8dp_978If they spoke up it be less attention

[@nuclease2739]

it's okay, we can keep the japanese documentary. It doesn't have to be one or the other

[@lydiat5819]

To all the lonely people out there, it does not mean that being married we don't feel lonely any more. Many of us still feel lonely inside while we have more duties for the family because as long as we do not feel an emotional connection with another, we will feel lonely. Similarly, if singles have many commitments and keep busy, it will have the somewhat similar effect as being married but the difference is being married you have someone to discuss big issues like buying a home/car/children, etc. So loneliness is actually common for both singles and married people, though more common for singles.

[@annonimbouz851]

Wrong. Then you're married to the wrong person.

[@Moodboard39]

Than sum dim Wong 😂😂😂

[@markshaw1966]

This documentary was very interesting.

[@duckling4393]

"The worst isn't being alone, the worst is being around people who make you feel alone". Robin Williams R.I.P.

[@ryantres85]

Having friends means you have to trust other people all the time and other people have to trust you all the time. Doing that nowadays is difficult.

[@opzero1868]

i tried too talk too many people in japan they say they "lonely" but don't try to go out with people.

[@Moodboard39]

Depend on the context ..Feeling and being is different

[@MultiJohnnyangel]

Everyone just wants somebody to tell them I Love You.

[@marialaura7326]

These people aren’t only scared of getting hurt but also they don’t have time because their companies need to slow it down on overworking them. You cannot have a healthy family or have a family when your job overworks you all the time

[@JB52520]

I feel loneliness and despair constantly. It never stops. Life is over but I lack the courage to die.

[@getbbudded23]

I’m a 49-year-old male living in the United States and I feel about the same way these young adults are feeling in Japan. I don’t feel close to my wife or my grown children anymore. I feel everybody lives for themselves and don’t really care what goes on with each other even if they do it feels like maybe they don’t. Unique times. There’s not a sense of community and family and fellowship, like there has been in the past. We should be really careful going forward especially with AI. We might really lose a piece of ourselves for good.

[@lornes7526]

56 year old here, I can relate. I'm almost tempted to blame it on the vaxx because everything had gotten so weird. So yeah, don't think you're alone.

[@Bunny11344]

@@lornes7526it’s not the vax yall gotta start genuinely connecting with your spouses and family. Yall gotta be vulnerable and have family time. Unless your kids are teens then they want nothing to do with you

[@manojfernando1028]

great programme as usual from CNA