Feeling depressed working in Japan

I have been working in Japan since April. Since june I am forced to do overtime, even when I am not feeling well. Thinking of going back to my home country, At least I was happy there, can take leaves, whenever I want. Or Should I switch jobs in Japan before leaving?

20 comments
  1. I’d say switch jobs. Japan does have a lot to offer, good or bad, like any country. As of now, it seems work-life balance is an issue? If you feel well when you get a job you love and also doesn’t stress you out, you’ll feel better. If not, then you can say that trying another country/going home is better?

  2. Overtime, like you’re doing 5-10 hours/week or overtime like you’re working until 1-2AM everyday and taking a taxi home?

  3. Sry to hear that, man. But I kinda feel the same…

    Been working in Japan like 10 yrs ago, came here the second time this year (fastest way to flee from Xi’s zero-covid shit), and the pay I got here literally stagnates, compared to the number last time.

    Right now I am trying to get a better job with a higher salary, but gave myself a time limit like 6 months. If it doesn’t work then fk it, I’ll leave. Don’t even care about the PR here,just not worthy for me.

  4. Do you have any friends? That seems to be the key to tolerating life.

    Yes, you should do a job hunt before you give up and leave Japan.

  5. In addition to all job advice, also reach out to your friends both in Japan and in your home country. Let them be there for you. Don’t navigate depression alone in a foreign country!

  6. If your current job is not a factory job and you have at least a bachelor’s degree, definitely change jobs. Try hitting up Robert Walters in Linkedin, they have a high preference of bilingual people (Japanese and English). Bonus if you’re still in your 20s. Most likely they will refer you to multinational companies that have branches throughout Japan. The working environment should be international (you can ask them about this), and you can always refuse if it’s a really traditional Japanese company. I was previously scouted and they would always send emails about companies until now.

  7. I get things can be difficult but I dont think anybody can force you to do overtime. I would just say no and walk away. I made it crystal clear to my boss that there will never be a day when I work overtime for the company.

    if that ends up getting another job, then the previous one was not worth keeping. Good luck, you can find better for sure. In Japan or elsewhere, I would look for all opportunities.

  8. Switch jobs. There are companies that treat their people with respect.

    I have no respect for companies who pretends to treat their people with respect but are constantly relying on people to overwork.

  9. Switch jobs. There are companies that treat their people with respect.

    I have no respect for companies who pretends to treat their people with respect but are constantly relying on people to overwork.

  10. Switch jobs. There are companies that treat their people with respect.

    I have no respect for companies who pretends to treat their people with respect but are constantly relying on people to overwork.

  11. I cant offer any advice cause Im not experienced in that field but is the overtime paid at least?

  12. The amount of time you’ve been in Japan is about right for a downturn in emotion in general, even if you weren’t unhappy w/your job.

  13. How do they force you to do overtime? Do they chain you to your desk? Have you called the police?

  14. Yes, the wrong workplace can make all the difference. Give some other places a try. I am having the same issue. Actually, had it since coming here many years ago, but the hours and pay are great, so I deal with incompetent management and work around them. But it is tiring, and you end up reflecting the idiots in charge. So best to find a place where they have some kind of enlightened leadership.

    Fuck the idiots running things, here and abroad. Management or top level positions often do not reflect actual ability.

  15. Yeah work for a foreign company based in Japan. It’s going to be definitely better for you.

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