Japan sees record workers' compensation for mental health in fiscal 2025

· Health · Japan

Japan recorded a record number of workers' compensation approvals for mental health in fiscal 2025, according to this year's white paper on measures to prevent karōshi, or death from overwork. The figure marked a record high for the seventh consecutive year. The trend highlights growing awareness and reporting of work-related mental health harm in Japan, where long hours and workplace stress have long been concerns.

Why it matters：Rising mental-health compensation claims reflect persistent workplace stress and evolving labour protections in Japan.

Key points

  • Compensation approvals for mental health hit a record in fiscal 2025.
  • It was the seventh consecutive annual record.
  • The figure comes from Japan's karōshi prevention white paper.

Sources (original reporting)

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