[Yuki Maru Hoshi]

Originally Posted by Toy Soldier

I was going to say that, Japan has a very "honour based" society and that may well play into this. I don't think it's so much that it would be seen as shameful to have a disabled family member... But stoicism and the ability to cope with stress / challenge is highly valued. So if someone is NOT coping, they might consider it dishonourable to ask for help or to just give up.

(That's also a big part of the high suicide rate; its seen as more honourable to end it than to admit to mental health struggles and ask for help)

That said, it still doesn't excuse it nor does it explain locking him in a painfully small cage, rather than just in a bedroom or something.

They do generally treat it as such. My friend took counseling partially to alleviate the anxiety of his stress levels (as well as help others)... he easily goes against the grain, as he is very empathetic as a person, takes things to heart very easily. That's one reason why I think he took to American culture (when we were originally exchanging culture many yeras ago), as it was an unexpected outlet for those feelings. Mental health awareness isn't really a thing there as much... I don't think it's a this or that sort of deal as much as their individual identity comes from your worth to the group, not from your individual qualities. I wouldn't say it is an un-empathetic culture though... far from it, but dealing with the Japanese can be very socially awkward (for a Westerner) at times... I actually have a grammar book specifically for conveying and communicating emotions in Japanese and how to interpret vague response because everything is so delicate and nuanced. (and also what is maybe not considered "normal" or appropriate...)