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 Some
folks complain that Tokyo is a lonely place. But with an
English-speaking population larger than most U.S. state
capitals, it isn't that difficult to meet people from
"back home" in Tokyo. If making friends in bars
isn't your thing, just contact a group or club sharing
one of your interests. Groups: In
addition to several support organizations (discussed
below), you'll find many groups dedicated to sports
(jogging, playing rugby, softball, tennis, etc.),
politics (Democrats or Republicans Abroad, Amnesty
International), professions and other fun activities.
The
best place to learn more about these groups is the Tokyo
Classifieds, a free publication available at most
places foreigners tend to congregate (Tower Records, the
National Azabu Supermarket in Hiroo, and most bookstores
that carry foreign publications). You can also check out
the Tokyo Classifieds online (web site links). Two newspapers, the Japan Times
and Daily Yomiuri also carry announcements of
group activities.
Though
many clubs quickly fade in and out of existence, contact
information often changes quickly and without notice.
Please check one of the publications listed above for the
most up-to-date information.
Support:
Japan can drive people do drink, to depression, even to a
never-ending Big Mac attack. But usually culture shock
only magnifies problems that already exist. Before you
pack your bags and head back to your native country,
consider if you would still be having similar problems
back home. If so, maybe Japan isn't the problem. Should
you decide to stick it out, there are many places in
Tokyo to turn for help.
Among
the groups out there are Alcoholics Anonymous, Overeaters
Anonymous, Codependents Anonymous and Adult Children of
Alcoholics. If none of these quite fit your needs, start
your own group by putting an ad in the Tokyo Classifieds
or Tokyo Notice Board. Chances are, you're not alone.
There
are also many hotlines you can call if you have trouble.
Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL) is one of the most famous,
but you can also call the Japan Helpline. AIDS/HIV
hotlines are also available. For telephone numbers, check
a local newspaper or magazine. All of these are strictly
confidential. But for legal problems, it's usually a good
idea to contact your embassy or consulate.
Since
contact people and telephone numbers frequently change
without notice, check out the Tokyo Classifieds, Tokyo
Notice Board, Tokyo Journal or you daily newspaper for
up-to-date information about who to call.
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