Hikikomori syndrome , also known as severe social withdrawal, is a disorder that refers to the phenomenon of extreme and voluntary social isolation.
Affected people tend to seclude themselves in their room, avoid social contact of any kind and, in many cases, replace in-person social relationships with virtual relationships.
Although it affects both men and women and can manifest at any age, there is a much higher incidence rate in men and in young people, especially in adolescents and young adults.
The Roots of Hikikomori
The term originated from Japanese society and refers to a lifestyle marked by extreme social withdrawal. While it first gained prominence in Japan, cases of hikikomori are now observed in diverse modern societies worldwide.
To comprehend the phenomenon, it is essential to explore its roots in Japanese society, where societal expectations, academic pressures, and cultural factors have played a significant role in shaping the hikikomori narrative.
Causes of Hikikomori syndrome
Currently, there isn’t a clear-cut reason for why this syndrome shows up. However, in most cases, it is usually associated with the patient’s social or family environment, as well as with a disappointment or feeling of insecurity in this regard.
In that sense, some of the circumstances that can favor the appearance of Hikikomori syndrome are the following:
- Family problems.
- Extreme shyness.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Problems linked to anxiety and social phobia.
- Agoraphobia.
- Having suffered bullying.
- Social rejection.
Symptoms of Hikikomori syndrome
The symptoms of Hikikomori syndrome typically manifest gradually and become more severe as the problem progresses. They may include:
- Voluntarily isolate or confine oneself.
- Lock yourself in a specific room or room in the house.
- Avoid any act that involves interacting in person.
- Sleep for the day.
- Neglecting health and personal hygiene.
- Use digital media as a substitute for social life.
- Have difficulty expressing yourself verbally.
- Experiencing violent or disproportionate behavior when questioned.
Hikikomori Syndrome Treatment
As Hikikomori syndrome is relatively new, there is no single treatment strategy to follow. Generally, in the West, this problem is usually approached in two different ways:
- Medical-psychiatric methodology: In dealing with Hikikomori syndrome, it’s seen as a behavioral disorder. This means that initially, the patient is taken to the hospital and given medications to help them overcome social phobia. After getting through the initial phase, treating Hikikomori syndrome involves using psychotherapy. This helps the patient regain lost social skills and rebuild their social life with the guidance of a professional psychotherapist. In some cases, this phase may also involve using medication.
- Psychosocial methodology: This approach tackles Hikikomori syndrome by disrupting the environment the patient considers their only safe space. The patient is moved to a clinic or house where they live with others facing the same disorder. While at the clinic, patients participate in activities that increase social interaction, aiding in the gradual recovery of their social skills. Additionally, they receive individual and group psychotherapy, resulting in significant improvements in overcoming the disorder.
Conclusion
Treating patients with Hikikomori syndrome is complex. It requires duly qualified professionals who are trained in dealing with this type of syndrome, closely linked to the challenges posed by new technologies and the issues faced by young people.
Delving into hikikomori requires more than just surface-level observations. A thorough exploration of its causes and triggers is necessary.
By unraveling the intricate web of societal, academic, and cultural factors, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex nature of this reality and, as we strive to create supportive environments that foster mental wellness.
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Reputable Sources for More Information:
- The Mayo Clinic: This website serves as a valuable resource for health information, offering a wide range of content, including articles, videos, and tools related to various medical conditions, treatments, and general health and wellness.
- HelpGuide: HelpGuide is a nonprofit resource that provides information and support for various mental health and wellness topics. It offers articles, guides, and resources on subjects such as mental health conditions, emotional well-being, relationships, and lifestyle choices.
- NIMH: On the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) website, you can find a wealth of information related to mental health, research findings, treatment options, and resources for individuals, families, and healthcare professionals.
