Why Osamu Dazai Resonates in Modern Times: A Personal Reflection on Mental Health
A Psychological Exploration
Lately, I've found myself deeply connected to the works of Osamu Dazai, a Japanese writer whose life and struggles seem to mirror my own in many ways. Born Shūji Tsushima, Dazai was the tenth of eleven children in a wealthy and influential family in early 20th-century Japan. His father, a prominent landowner and politician, cast a long shadow over the family, imposing significant pressure on Dazai and his siblings. The relationship between Dazai and his father was particularly strained and distant, marked by his father's strict and authoritative nature. It's the fact that his father's authoritarian style likely contributed to Dazai's feelings of neglect and inadequacy.
Adding to this, Dazai's mother was often ill and unable to care for him directly. This maternal absence likely led to feelings of abandonment and emotional insecurity. The absence of a nurturing figure in his early years may have affected his ability to form secure attachments, further compounding his feelings of isolation and despair.
In the early 20th century, Japan was a society deeply rooted in tradition and strict social hierarchies. Familial and societal expectations were rigid, especially within affluent families like Dazai’s. The patriarchal structure emphasized obedience, discipline, and the upholding of family honor. As the son of a wealthy landowner and politician, Dazai faced immense pressure to conform to these expectations. Unfortunately, the understanding and support for mental health issues were minimal at this time, and stigma often forced individuals to suffer in silence.
I can relate to this so deeply. Growing up, I also had a strained relationship with my father, who held high expectations and rarely showed affection. It's the fact that constant criticism and unrelenting expectations severely undermined my self-worth. I often felt like nothing I did was ever good enough.
Low Self-Esteem: Just like Dazai, the pressure to meet high standards and the feeling of inadequacy led to chronic anxiety and depression for both of us. I remember countless nights lying awake, feeling the weight of expectations crushing me.
Rebellion or Withdrawal: In response to my father's strict authority, I alternated between rebellion and emotional withdrawal. Dazai’s life reflected this same turmoil, as he struggled to find his own identity against the backdrop of his father’s dominance.
Identity Confusion: A lack of paternal support and validation caused confusion about my role and identity, contributing to a lifelong struggle with self-worth.
Maternal Absence: As mentioned earlier, Dazai's mother was often ill and unable to care for him directly. This lack of maternal presence could have led to feelings of abandonment and emotional insecurity. The absence of a nurturing figure in his early years may have affected his ability to form secure attachments.
Isolation: As a child, Dazai was often left in the care of his aunt and other caregivers. This separation from his immediate family could have fostered a sense of isolation and loneliness. He was also sent to elite schools, where he might have felt the pressure to conform to high academic standards, further exacerbating his sense of alienation.
Childhood Abuse: Adding to Dazai’s burdens, he was sexually abused by female servants, a traumatic experience that undoubtedly contributed to his emotional turmoil. This abuse would have intensified his feelings of vulnerability and helplessness, compounding his mental health struggles.
Dazai’s life was marred by severe mental health struggles. He attempted suicide multiple times, a clear sign of profound depression. Additionally, he battled substance abuse, using alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms for his psychological pain. I haven’t gone as far as attempting suicide, but I have battled with my own dark thoughts and periods of deep depression.
During Dazai's lifetime, mental health services were not widely available or socially accepted in Japan. The societal response to mental health issues was often dictated by traditional practices and expectations, which might involve family interventions or religious rituals rather than professional psychological support. Even today, despite significant advancements in mental health awareness and support, there are times when I feel the same societal pressures and stigma. Modern society has a far greater understanding and acceptance of mental health issues, with significantly improved access to services and professional support. There is a cultural shift towards empathy and understanding, moving away from the stigma and neglect that characterized Dazai’s time. Additionally, modern legal protections ensure the right to care for individuals with mental health issues.
Despite this, the themes of despair, alienation, and existential angst in Dazai's work strike a chord with me and many others. This enduring connection reveals underlying complexities in modern society that contribute to mental health challenges, suggesting why people might still find solace in Dazai’s experiences and writings.
His raw and unfiltered portrayal of his own psychological battles offers a sense of authenticity and vulnerability that I find compelling. In an age where there is immense pressure to present a curated and positive image, Dazai’s honesty provides a comforting counter-narrative that feels genuine and relatable.
Dazai’s raw and honest portrayal of his struggles provides a sense of comfort and validation. His work reminds me that I am not alone in my experiences, and that these feelings are a part of the human condition. This connection has inspired me to create a theater play, aiming to explore these themes and bridge the gap in connection that many feel in today’s society.
We are excited to announce a panel discussion on July 17th, at 7 PM online where we will delve into the intricate themes of mental health as portrayed in Osamu Dazai’s "No Longer Human." This event will explore the character of Oba Yozo, Dazai’s own life experiences, and the relevance of these themes in today’s society.
Audience Participation:
We encourage audience members to participate in the discussion, share their thoughts, and ask questions. This event aims to create a supportive and open environment where we can explore these critical issues together.
Join us as we explore the profound themes of mental health in Osamu Dazai’s "No Longer Human" and their relevance in our modern world. Together, we can better understand these issues and work towards a more empathetic and supportive society.
LINK COMMING SOON