Sunday night blues, Sazae-san syndrome

In Japanese, there is a term called サザエさん症候群 Sazae-san shoukougun /ʃjoukoːɡun/ which translates to Sazae-san syndrome. Sazae-san is a popular anime character and the term refers to the feeling of sadness or anxiety that some people experience on Sunday nights. This anime has been airing since 1969 and is broadcast nationwide every Sunday at 6:30 PM.

When I hear Sazae-san’s theme song, I sense that the working day is approaching. Maybe the most Japanese people feel the same.

Sazae-san syndrome in English

Similar phenomena are observed worldwide, with terms like “Sunday night blues” and “Blue Monday syndrome” used to describe these feelings of melancholy and anxiety. Along with psychological symptoms such as moodiness and anxiety, Sazae-san syndrome can manifest in physical symptoms like nausea, stomach pain, fatigue, and insomnia.

Although these symptoms bear a resemblance to the early signs of depression, the key difference is that Sazae-san syndrome occurs predominantly on Sundays and the day before returning to work or school, whereas depression persists chronically.

The Causes of Sazae-san syndrome

The primary cause of Sazae-san syndrome is often dissatisfaction with school or work, leading to the accumulation of stress. Other factors that contribute to its onset include a lack of hobbies or outlets for stress relief and an irregular lifestyle, such as disrupted sleep or eating patterns.

People who are conscientious and have a strong sense of responsibility, as well as those who lack a support system or feel unfulfilled in life, are said to be more prone to developing Sazae-san syndrome. To effectively manage these symptoms, it is important to identify the sources of stress and learn to cope with them, find hobbies and prioritize personal time, establish a healthy daily routine, and engage in conversations with family and friends.

Coping with Sazae-san syndrome

Managing Sazae-san syndrome involves finding effective coping strategies to deal with the stress and anxiety associated with Sunday evenings and the day before returning to school or work. Understanding the triggers and finding healthy ways to handle them is crucial.

Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy and relaxation can provide a much-needed outlet for stress. It is also important to establish a balanced lifestyle with regular sleep patterns, nutritious meals, and exercise. Building a support network of friends and family members who can be trusted and confided in can provide emotional support and help alleviate feelings of loneliness or dissatisfaction.

Additionally, it is essential to make the most out of Sundays and the day before returning to work or school by engaging in productive and fulfilling activities rather than wasting the day away.

Prioritize yourself

Sazae-san syndrome, or the Sunday night blues, is a common phenomenon characterized by feelings of unease and melancholy on Sunday evenings and the day before returning to school or work. While it shares similarities with depression, the key difference lies in its episodic nature.

Understanding the causes and implementing effective coping strategies can help manage the symptoms of Sazae-san syndrome. By prioritizing self-care, engaging in hobbies, establishing a balanced lifestyle, and seeking support from loved ones, individuals can navigate through these challenging periods and cultivate a more positive mindset towards the start of the week.

Also, to avoid joining a black company, refer to the below post.

Why is Japanese Work Culture So Bad?