Mental Health Support in Japan for Foreigners [2026]

Language barriers, cultural differences, isolation, and overwork put foreign residents at particular risk of mental health challenges. Don't dismiss the signs — seeking help early makes a real difference. This page covers helplines, how to see a psychiatrist, insurance, and other available resources.

① Public and nonprofit helplines (some toll-free, some with call charges)

② Seeing a psychiatrist or psychosomatic doctor

In Japan, "精神科 (seishin-ka, psychiatry)" and "心療内科 (shinryō-naika, psychosomatic medicine)" are the main options. Both are covered by health insurance — you pay 30%. Most clinics require appointments, so book in advance by phone or online.

To find a multilingual clinic, contact the AMDA International Medical Information Center (multilingual phone line 0120-339-266, toll-free, or 03-6233-9266). Hours are weekdays 10:00–16:00 (closed on public holidays and Dec 29–Jan 3), and available languages vary by day. Vietnamese and Indonesian are offered only on set days shown on AMDA's monthly calendar, so check the AMDA website before calling.

③ Counseling vs. psychiatry

④ Workplace and community support

• Company EAP: Ask HR if your employer offers free employee assistance counseling.
• Local international exchange associations: Many offer multilingual life consultation, including mental health concerns.
• Industrial physician (産業医): Workplaces with 50+ employees have a physician available for free consultation.

⑤ In a crisis (self-harm or suicidal thoughts)

Outside the Yorisoi Hotline's hours (for example at night), 119 also offers interpreter-assisted calls through a telephone interpreting center, available 24 hours a day in many areas — see Emergency contact numbers in Japan.

FAQ

Can I use health insurance at a psychiatrist in Japan?Yes. Psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine are covered by public health insurance — you pay 30%. Bring your insurance card.

Can I see a doctor if I don't speak Japanese?Contact AMDA (multilingual phone line 0120-339-266, toll-free; weekdays 10:00–16:00, closed on public holidays and Dec 29–Jan 3) to find multilingual clinics. The Yorisoi Hotline also provides interpreter-assisted consultations.

Is the Yorisoi Hotline available in English?Yes. Call 0120-279-338 and press 2 after the opening guidance to reach the foreign-language line. It is open every day from 10:00 to 22:00, and the available languages (English, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai, Vietnamese, Nepali, Indonesian and others) vary by time. The call is free.

What should I do if I can't sleep due to work stress?Try calling the Mental Health Consultation Dial (0570-064-556) or seeing a general internal medicine doctor. Sleep disorders are also treated at psychosomatic medicine clinics.

When should I choose counseling over a psychiatrist?If you have persistent symptoms or may need medication, see a psychiatrist (insurance-covered). For life stress or just needing to talk, counseling may be more appropriate.

For a guide on how to find and visit clinics in Japan, including multilingual support options, see how to use hospitals and clinics. For a compiled list of emergency numbers including 119 and 110, see Japan Emergency Contacts: How to Call 119, 110 & Ambulance (Multilingual).