Mental Health Problems Associated With the Concept of “Ikigai” As Purpose in Life or “Raison D’etre”

Mental health has become crucial problem over the world. Difference is observed between Western and Eastern countries. The concept of “ikigai” exists in Japanese culture, meaning of reason for living or purpose in life, which is nearly well-being, “raison d’etre” or “raison de vivre” in French. For some reports, ikigai has certain relationship with well-being, anxiety, stress and depression. People with having ikigai showed lower risk of functional disability (-31%) and dementia (-36%) compared with people not having ikigai. Furthermore, related words include Hinohara-ism and also “life crafting” that means a framework searching for a life purpose.

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