The effects of the "May Blues" on work

Last year, ToneToEdo wrote an informative blog about a phenomenon called gogatsubyo, or the May blues. It wasn't a term I'd heard of before (part of why I love this site - I learn so much!) but it's certainly something I can relate to after years of living here. When the sakura have fallen, the azaleas have wilted, and Golden Week is in the rear view mirror, I think we all feel a bit flat and are hanging out until the next national holiday. 

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On that topic, I read an interesting press release this week from the Tokushikai Association, which found that about 60% of working adults nationwide have experienced May Blues-- and of those, around 16% reported they suffer from it every year. Worryingly, nearly 70% of those affected said it impacted their work performance, often lasting for several months. Common symptoms include struggling to get out of bed and a persistent lack of motivation to work, and about 30% of respondents even considered quitting their jobs because of it.

It was a good reminder that if you're feeling unusually low at this time of year, you're definitely not alone, and it's okay to take those feelings seriously. Whether it's reaching out to a friend, slowing down where you can, or even seeking professional support if needed, looking after your mental health is important.

Have you ever been affected by the May Blues/May Sickness while living here? Has it impacted your job performance or other aspects of your life in any way?