Have you ever heard the term Gogatsu-byo? After Golden Week, you might come across it on TV or in conversations at work. Gogatsu-byo (五月病), often called the May blues, refers to a kind of emotional slump or lack of motivation that some people experience in May, especially after the long holiday break. It’s not an official medical condition, but in Japan, it’s a common way to describe the stress or fatigue that can follow big life changes—like starting a new job, moving to a new place, or adjusting to a different routine. In this post, let’s explore what the May blues are all about, the cultural background behind Gogatsu-byo, and simple ways to lift your mood and motivation after a long weekend.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: What Is Gogatsu-byo?
Gogatsu-byo (五月病) literally means “May sickness” in Japanese—“Gogatsu” (五月) means May, and “byo” (病) means sickness or illness. This common cultural term describes the feeling of fatigue, low motivation, or an emotional slump that many people experience in May, especially after Golden Week, Japan’s longest holiday period. Although doctors don’t officially diagnose Gogatsu-byo, people across Japan recognize the pattern and often talk about it in daily life.
| English | Kanji | Romaji |
|---|---|---|
|
May Blues |
五月病 |
Gogatsu-byo |
Cultural Background
In Japan, April is known as the month of New Life (新生活), marking the start of the school year and the business year. Many people begin new jobs, move to new cities, or enter new schools during this time. There’s a strong push to quickly adapt, fit in, and make a good first impression. This busy start is followed by Golden Week, a series of national holidays in late April and early May. People finally get a chance to rest, but when they return to work or school afterward, the reality sets in.
It’s common for unfamiliar situations to build stress gradually without people realizing it. Many also tend to push themselves too hard without noticing, and sometimes the work environment or the tasks just don’t fit, leading to adjustment issues.
This emotional crash is what Japanese people casually call Gogatsu-byo, or the May blues.
Source: Osaka Medical Association
Chapter 2: Who Is Affected?
Gogatsu-byo tends to affect people who are adjusting to new environments or significant changes in their lives. This includes individuals who:
Are settling into a new school, class, or department.
Have started a new job or moved to a new city.
Need to adjust to a completely different routine after the initial energy of the new year.
Many people experience apathy, increased anxiety, and difficulty finding joy in things they once enjoyed. If you start to feel uneasy or notice that things no longer seem as fun as they once did, it’s important to pay attention, as these may be signs of Gogatsu-byo.
In some cases, stress may show up physically, with symptoms like stomach pain, loss of appetite, headaches, dizziness, or even insomnia. These physical signs can point to the body’s struggle with the pressure of adapting to changes.
Source: Osaka Medical Association
Chapter 3: Useful Japanese Terms to Know
五月病 (Gogatsu-byo) – May sickness: The emotional slump or lack of motivation some people feel after Golden Week.
ストレス (Sutoresu) – Stress: The mental or emotional strain caused by various life challenges.
適応障害 (Tekiō shōgai) – Adjustment disorder: Struggling to adapt to new circumstances, leading to emotional distress.
メンタルヘルス (Mentaru herusu) – Mental health: Emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
心療内科 (Shinryōnaika) – Psychosomatic medicine clinic: A clinic treating emotional issues that show as physical symptoms.
鬱 (Utsu) – Depression: A serious mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness, low energy, and a lack of interest in activities.
不安 (Fuan) – Anxiety: A feeling of worry or unease, often related to stress or uncertainty.
自律神経 (Jiritsu shinkei) – Autonomic nervous system: The part of the nervous system that controls involuntary functions, which can be affected by stress or emotional issues.
Chapter 4: How to Cope and Prevent May Blues
Managing and preventing Gogatsu-byo involves proactive steps to maintain mental well-being. Here are six practical strategies:
1.Plan the Next Holiday
Looking forward to the next break can help combat feelings of fatigue. Planning your next holiday, even a short one, can create something positive to anticipate and break up the stress of the work or school routine. You can check the 2025 Japanese public holiday calendar here:
2. Take Short Trips
A quick getaway can refresh your mind and body. Whether it’s a day trip to the countryside or a weekend escape, getting outside and experiencing a change of scenery can provide a much-needed mental reset. For onsen, glamping, or camping, use our guide for your next trip.
3. Stay Active
Physical activity has a powerful impact on mental health. Regular exercise, even if it’s just a walk in the park or a short workout, can reduce stress and boost your mood.
4. Maintain a Healthy Routine
Establishing a stable daily routine, including enough sleep, balanced meals, and time for relaxation, can prevent burnout and help keep your mental health in check.
5. Talk About Your Feelings
Don’t bottle up your emotions. Talking to friends, family, or a counselor about how you’re feeling can provide support and help you manage stress more effectively.
6. Consult a Medical Professional if Unsure
If you’re uncertain whether you’re experiencing Gogatsu-byo or something more serious like depression or anxiety, it’s advisable to consult a medical professional. They can offer guidance and suggest appropriate treatment if necessary. If you’re not sure where to go or what type of treatment is right for you in Japan, please check our guide on how to navigate the Japanese healthcare system.
Gogatsu-byo can affect anyone, especially after the busy Golden Week. It’s important to recognize the signs and take steps to manage stress, like planning holidays, staying active, and seeking professional help when needed. Taking care of your mental health is key to enjoying life in Japan.
If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to leave a comment. We’re here to help!
