FUKUOKA - As many in Japan returned to work or school on May 7th following the Golden Week holiday, a growing number are reporting post-holiday fatigue and sleep deprivation—conditions that experts warn may point to deeper sleep-related issues.
In Fukuoka City, the morning commute resumed as usual, with many expressing a mix of refreshed energy and lingering exhaustion. One woman noted that although the break allowed her to relax and reset, the return to daily life brought stress and early waking. Another commuter said she had been feeling emotionally heavy, especially in the days leading up to the end of the holiday.
At a psychiatric clinic in the Tenjin area of Fukuoka, women sought consultations for ongoing sleep troubles. One woman, who had struggled with sleeplessness for the past six months, said she had resorted to medication to force herself to sleep. Another patient, dealing with symptoms for over a decade, said her lack of rest made her irritable and emotionally unstable. "I think not being able to sleep properly is affecting me," she said.
According to physicians, long holidays often disrupt daily routines, making it easier for sleep disorders to emerge. Fluctuations in daytime temperature exceeding 10 degrees Celsius, combined with psychological stress and autonomic nervous system instability, can also trigger these conditions. In some cases, sleep disorders are linked to underlying mental health issues.
If left untreated, sleep disorders may impair judgment, reduce concentration, and increase the risk of conditions like diabetes and hypertension. A study by the OECD found that among 33 countries surveyed, Japan had the shortest average sleep duration at 7 hours and 42 minutes—significantly below the OECD average of 8 hours and 29 minutes.
According to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, adults should get at least six hours of sleep per night. Yet, 38.5% of men and 43.6% of women in Japan sleep less than that.
Symptoms of sleep disorders include difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, waking too early, and persistent feelings of fatigue despite sleeping. Medical experts recommend three key strategies: maintaining consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, ensuring exposure to light and regular meals in the morning, and staying active during the day. "Sleep quality tends to improve with daytime activity," a doctor explained. "Those who move more during the day tend to sleep more deeply."
Doctors advise seeking medical attention if sleeplessness continues for more than two consecutive weeks.
Source: FBS
