Sid in Japan

No matter how prepared you are to live abroad, nothing quite hits as hard as getting sick when you’re far from home. When you’re in a foreign country like Japan, even the simplest tasks, like buying cold medicine, can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re still getting used to the language and culture. Here’s a look at what to expect and how to manage both the physical and emotional toll of being sick while living abroad.

What You Should Know

Japan’s healthcare system can be highly efficient in some places, but if you’re unfamiliar with the process, it can be intimidating and confusing at first. Here’s what you should keep in mind when navigating illness:

1. Understanding Healthcare Options: Japan has a robust healthcare system that’s accessible to residents, including foreigners. If you’re enrolled in either the National Health Insurance (NHI) or Employees’ Health Insurance, you’ll receive medical care at a significantly reduced cost. In case you need to see a doctor, look for a local clinic (クリニック) or hospital (病院) nearby. Many doctors in Japan, especially in larger cities, understand basic English, but it can be helpful to bring along a Japanese-speaking friend or a translation app. In my expereience, most staff at doctors’ offices don’t speak English, but the doctor themself usually knows quite a bit of medical words in English. Additionally, you may come across things that aren’t covered by insurance (for example, the crown on my root canal wasn’t covered), but the service is incredibly cheap compared to prices in the United States.
2. Common Cold Remedies in Japan: When you feel the onset of a cold or flu, you can visit any pharmacy (薬局) or convenience store (コンビニ) to buy over-the-counter medicine. Popular brands like “Pabron” (パブロン) and “Eve” (イブ) are widely used for cold symptoms, but you’ll need to read the labels carefully or ask the pharmacist for help. Be mindful that medications in Japan are often milder compared to those you might be used to back home. Also, it is common curtesy in Japan to wear a mask when you’re feeling under the weather, so please be mindful!
3. Visiting the Doctor: If you’re not getting better after a few days or if your symptoms worsen, it’s time to see a doctor. For minor illnesses, I would recommend starting at a local clinic. The process is pretty straightforward—just show your insurance card and be prepared to fill out a form upon arrival. You’ll usually be asked to describe your symptoms, so learning a few basic phrases in Japanese can be useful. General Practicioners don’t exist in the same way in Japan, so you may need to do some research to see what kind of doctor you need to visit. As always, for more urgent symptoms, please go to a hospital or emergency room.

Dealing with Homesickness While Sick

One of the hardest parts of being sick abroad is the feeling of homesickness that often comes with it. When you’re not feeling well, it’s natural to crave the comfort of your family, familiar foods, and the healthcare system you grew up with. Here’s how to manage those feelings while taking care of your health in Japan:

1. Create a Comfort Zone: Your living space can be a sanctuary when you’re not feeling your best. Stock up on your favorite teas, soups, and snacks that bring you comfort. Even if you can’t get the exact same items from home, Japan has a wide range of options. Ginger tea, for instance, is widely available and is great for soothing a sore throat.
2. Connect with Loved Ones: Technology can be a lifesaver when you’re feeling down. Reach out to family and friends back home via video calls or messaging apps like Line or WhatsApp. Sometimes, just seeing a familiar face and hearing a comforting voice can lift your spirits.
3. Find Comfort in Community: You’re not the only one who’s experienced being sick while living abroad. Try reaching out to fellow expats or colleagues who can offer advice or even just sympathy. Online forums and groups, like the AJET community or local expat groups, are great for sharing experiences and getting tips on how to cope.
4. Practice Self-Care: When you’re under the weather, it’s important to listen to your body. Japan is great for pampering yourself with hot springs (温泉), easy-to-make comfort foods like instant noodles or porridge (お粥), and calming bath salts (入浴剤). Even if you’re just resting at home, taking small steps to treat yourself kindly can help you feel better faster.
5. Stay Patient with Yourself: Homesickness tends to be more intense when you’re physically drained. Remind yourself that it’s okay to feel vulnerable, and that this period of illness will pass. Once you’re back on your feet, you’ll likely feel even stronger for having navigated this challenge while living abroad.

Final Thoughts

Getting sick in Japan is an inevitable part of living abroad, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and a bit of patience, you can navigate both the healthcare system and the homesickness that often accompanies illness. Remember that this too is a part of your journey—and one that you’ll look back on as a moment of growth and resilience. Stay connected, take care of yourself, and you’ll get through it!