#Japan #mental health #Hino #Hikikomori #Women's Gathering

Hikikomori UX Women's Gathering: A Safe Space for Women in Isolation

On June 22, 2023, a unique event aimed at women struggling with social withdrawal and various life challenges will take place in Hino City, Japan. The event, known as the Hikikomori UX Women's Gathering, is designed not only for women who are currently in a state of hikikomori (social withdrawal) but also for their families and others interested in understanding hikikomori issues. This initiative also embraces the concept of the Connected Waiting Room, running simultaneously.

Recently published statistics by the Cabinet Office in March 2023 indicate an alarming trend: approximately 1.46 million individuals aged 15 to 64 are reported to be in a state of hikikomori, with a significant portion of these being women. Specifically, among the 15-39 age group, 45.1% of hikikomori individuals are women, while in the 40-64 age group, this number climbs to a staggering 52.3%. This data highlights the urgent need to address the unique experiences and struggles that women face in society, particularly in connection with care duties such as homemaking, child-rearing, and elder care, which often result in isolation.

Women in these roles may find themselves cut off from social interactions, leading to a sense of loneliness and mental strain. Moreover, many women express feelings of discomfort when discussing their issues in predominantly male spaces, revealing an urgent need for safe environments where they can share their experiences and feelings freely. Therefore, both the Hikikomori UX Women's Gathering and the Connected Waiting Room are designed to meet this need, offering women a supportive atmosphere where they can find common ground and feel less alone.

The gathering aims to cultivate a sense of belonging, counteracting the isolation many women experience. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges, foster community, and share their stories without fear of judgment. The organizers have collaborated with various local governments in Tokyo to ensure that this event serves as a beacon of hope and support for individuals in need.

Event Details

• - Hikikomori UX Women's Gathering

- Date & Time: June 22 (Monday), 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM (Doors open at 1:40 PM)
- Venue: Hino City Hirayama Community Center, 3rd Floor Grand Hall
- Target Audience: Women experiencing social withdrawal or interpersonal difficulties, with no age restrictions. The first session welcomes all women, even those without personal experience.
- Program:
- Part 1: Personal experiences shared by hikikomori participants (approx. 40 minutes)
- Part 2: Group discussions for participants with personal experiences (approx. 1.5 hours)
- Registration: Not required
- Capacity: 60 people (first-come, first-served on the day of the event)

• - Connected Waiting Room (held simultaneously)

- Date & Time: June 22 (Monday), 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM (Check-in begins at 2:45 PM)
- Venue: Hino City Hirayama Community Center, 2nd Floor Meeting Room 1
- Target Audience: Family members of hikikomori individuals, supporters, and anyone interested in hikikomori issues, open to all genders.
- Program: A space for free interaction among participants
- Registration: Not required
- Capacity: 30 people (first-come, first-served on the day of the event)

Conclusion

This event serves as a crucial step in combating the stigma surrounding hikikomori and aims to empower women to forge connections and seek the support they need. We encourage media representatives to share the information about this initiative widely. If any journalists wish to cover the event, please reach out in advance. Together, let’s create a community where women can feel understood and supported.