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It is not surprising that stress is a major issue in Japan and has been for many years. For many, commuting to and from work is a major contributor to stress. Further, the Japanese often maintain long work hours and endure enormous pressure, partly as a result of the emphasis on a "customer-is-first" approach to business at all levels.
Government-Supported Initiatives
"Statistical Abstracts on Health and Welfare in Japan 2003" indicates that over 1.2 million Japanese were treated for mood, neurotic and stress-related disorders in 2002. Somewhat surprisingly, nearly two-thirds of those treated were women. Fatigue is listed as one of the top five categories for treatment of "persons with subjective symptoms," following "low back pain" and "stiff...
