01. Why are measures for loneliness and isolation necessary?

Amidst weakening social connections, issues related to loneliness and isolation have become increasingly evident as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

Based on the idea that this is truly a contemporary social problem that needs to be faced head-on, the world's first ministerial-level post was established in February 2021 to address the issue of loneliness and isolation.

02. What does the Office for Policy on Loneliness and Isolation do?

Task forces have been established on the three themes of utilizing social media, ascertaining people's loneliness and social Isolation, and supporting collaboration among organizations involved in loneliness and isolation. NPOs and other support groups, private companies, academic experts, and government agencies are working together to promote these initiatives.

In addition, the government is working together as one to improve the environment to make it easier for support groups to conduct their activities, such as by compiling emergency support measures for NPOs and other organizations tackling loneliness and isolation.

03. What is the reality of loneliness and isolation in Japan?

In order to grasp the actual situation of loneliness and isolation in Japan, a nationwide survey was conducted from December 2021 to January 2022, and the results were released on April 8, 2022. According to the survey, 4.5% of respondents indicated that they "often/always" feel lonely, 14.5% said "sometimes," 17.4% said "occasionally," 38.9% said "almost never," and 23.7% said "never.
In addition to the age groups and gender of those who feel lonely, the survey also revealed overall trends such as events experienced prior to the current loneliness and the state of social isolation. The full results of the survey can be found here.

04. I am hesitant to use the systems or consultation services.

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05. What can I do if I can't find the support I want to use in
the Chatbot?

Each local government consultation service has a variety of information on local government-specific systems and services, as well as private supports. Each local government has a comprehensive consultation service for every kind of need, so please refer to them for consultation purpose.