#Japan #Tokyo #Kirin #fatigue survey #psychological stress

Exploring the Roots of Modern Fatigue

KIRIN Holdings Co., led by CEO Kenji Minamikata, recently conducted an extensive survey on fatigue affecting modern individuals. From October 31 to November 3, 2025, the company gathered insights from 1,800 men and women aged 30 to 50 across Japan to better understand their experiences with fatigue.

In the context of today’s fast-paced society, the phenomenon of fatigue has grown increasingly complex. KIRIN's goal was to uncover the extent to which individuals in their 30s to 50s are grappling with feelings of exhaustion and the associated psychological burdens stemming from stress and tension. Through this study, KIRIN aims to highlight the importance of managing both physical fatigue and mental well-being.

The results were telling: a staggering 90.3% of respondents reported experiencing not only physical fatigue but also pronounced feelings of exhaustion. Moreover, 91.0% of those who felt fatigued recognized a direct relationship between their fatigue and stress, highlighting the intricate connections between emotional strain and physical symptoms. As individuals age, they tend to report heightened levels of stress and psychological burden; the average fatigue score among participants was approximately 7 out of 10.

Major Findings

1. The Nature of Fatigue: The survey clearly indicated that a significant portion of the workforce is suffering from fatigue, which is primarily rooted in psychological stress. Approximately 90.3% of respondents indicated they feel a sense of fatigue that is intertwined with mental stress, revealing that modern fatigue is not merely a matter of physical exhaustion but is largely influenced by emotional factors.

2. Causes of Psychological Stress: Respondents identified several primary triggers for their emotional stress: workplace relationships (31.1%), lack of sleep (26.3%), and the pressures of deadlines and workload (21.7%). This demonstrates a concentration of psychological burdens in interconnected areas: relationships at work, sleep quality, and professional demands.

3. Age and Increasing Fatigue: The survey found that fatigue intensifies with age. A significant 70.8% acknowledged that their fatigue has increased over the years, attributing this to a combination of decreasing physical strength and increasing professional and familial responsibilities.

4. Severe Fatigue Levels: Notably, over half of the participants scored their fatigue above 7 out of 10, suggesting that many view their fatigue as critical and perhaps a normal part of their daily lives.

As the study illuminates the complex web of factors contributing to modern fatigue, it underscores the necessity of addressing emotional health alongside physical wellness. KIRIN aspires to encourage a healthier, more vibrant society by advocating for comprehensive care addressing both physical fatigue and psychological strain.

The findings serve as a wake-up call not only for individuals but also for organizations, emphasizing the need for supportive environments that prioritize mental health alongside productivity. As the landscape of work evolves, so too must our approach to managing fatigue, fostering resilience, and supporting overall well-being in a world that is increasingly demanding.

Study Overview

• - Target Group: 1,800 individuals aged 30-50, nationwide
• - Method: Internet survey
• - Duration: October 31 - November 3, 2025

In conclusion, KIRIN’s investigation into the phenomenon of fatigue reveals a pressing need for both personal and organizational changes in how we approach mental and physical wellness. As modern life continues to challenge our emotional and physical resources, understanding and addressing the root causes of fatigue becomes paramount for a healthier society.