“There’s no way I should complain about something like this.”

“There are people who have it much worse than me, so I shouldn’t say I’m struggling.”

Some people hold back their feelings and try to endure on their own like this.

After the Great East Japan Earthquake, many people in the affected areas endured without complaining, thinking, “I’m still more fortunate than others,” or “I shouldn’t say it’s hard.” However, there were times when this kind of “endurance” seemed to actually delay their mental recovery.

In Japan, there is a strong cultural value that sees “not complaining” as a virtue and “showing weakness” as a shame. The spirit of Bushido and a culture that values patience might be part of this background.

But in reality—

Talking to others, venting complaints, and relying on someone is not “being weak,” but a strength to protect yourself.

For example, Finland, which was once known as a “suicide-prone country,” launched a nationwide campaign encouraging people to “consult” and “talk.” As a result, their suicide rate dropped significantly.

That much, being able to think “It’s okay to talk” is very important.

Of course, the student counseling office is one place for this. But consulting someone close to you can also be a more casual and natural form of “mental care.”

Family, friends, club members, colleagues at part-time jobs, teachers, seniors… just having someone listen to you can lighten your heart.

That said, you might feel anxious, thinking, “I don’t have anyone like that,” or “What if they don’t understand me?” In reality, even if you take the step to talk, you might feel hurt because your feelings weren’t conveyed well, you were denied, or they only told their own opinions, making you think “I shouldn’t have talked.”

But please don’t give up.

A certain psychologist said, “Out of 10 people, about 3 will listen properly.”

You could also see that as meaning there are 7 people who might not be so good listeners, but still, it means there’s a chance to find those 3 people around you.

Even if it doesn’t go well once, with someone else, or at a different time, your feelings might get through.

“When you feel ‘a little down’ or ‘want someone to listen,’ why not try gradually talking to someone close to you? The Student Support Room is also available as a place to talk.

There are surely people somewhere who will listen to your story.