Writer : Kotomi T.
Editor : Momoka T.
Translator : Zyla H.
There are two main causes of the “May blues.” The first is changes in relationships. For many new university students, time spent alone increases compared to high school, and entering a new community means having to adjust to different ways of connecting with others.
The second cause is changes in the environment. In high school, students typically follow a fixed curriculum and daily routine. However, in university, students are responsible for choosing their own classes and setting their own schedules.
These shifts can lead to accumulated stress. When students are unable to cope with or release that stress effectively, it may result in the onset of the May blues.
How to Recover
1. Talk to Someone
Sharing your worries and anxieties about university life with someone can be a great way to release stress. Simply putting your thoughts into words and having someone listen can help lighten your emotional burden more than you might expect.
If you find it difficult to talk to family, consider opening up to a senior student or a close friend.
In addition, Tokyo International University offers Student Counseling Services. These are available at both the Kawagoe and Ikebukuro campuses. You can choose between in-person or Zoom sessions depending on your preference.
For more details or to book a consultation, visit the link below:
🔗 https://www.tiu.ac.jp/campus/conference/
2. Engage in a Hobby
Do you have a hobby? If so, try immersing yourself in it when you’re feeling stressed. Hobbies can be a great way to take your mind off worries—especially if they’re activities you can enjoy on a regular basis.
Some great examples include karaoke or sports. These activities help reduce the activity of the sympathetic nervous system (which is responsible for stress responses) and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, naturally putting your body into a more relaxed state.
What’s more, when you’re having fun or feeling a sense of accomplishment, your brain releases dopamine. This can boost your motivation and concentration, helping you return to your daily life with renewed energy.
Even a short break from stress through doing something you enjoy can make a big difference in how you feel.
3. Visit Relaxation Facilities Near Campus
① Near the Ikebukuro Campus: Times Spa Resta
- Address: 4-25-9 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo (5-minute walk from the Ikebukuro Campus)
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:30 AM the next day
(Closes at 10:30 PM on Sundays and the final day of long holidays; irregular holidays)
🔗 http://www.timesspa-resta.jp/
At Times Spa Resta, you can enjoy a wide range of services designed to help you unwind. The lounge area is carefully designed with soothing sounds, lighting, and aromas to create a peaceful atmosphere.
The spa features open-air baths and saunas, along with a full selection of amenities. For deeper relaxation, there are also body care treatments, traditional Thai massage, and oil therapy available. With such a variety of services, it’s a great place to refresh both your body and mind.
Additionally, there’s an on-site restaurant open from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM (until 10:00 PM on Sundays and the final day of long holidays). Even if you’re not using the spa, you can still enjoy a meal here without paying an entrance fee.
② Near the Kawagoe Campus: Koedo Onsen KASHIBA
- Address: 1313-1 Matsugo, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama
(Free shuttle bus available from the bus stop near Kawagoe Station West Exit – approx. 5 minutes) - Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Admission Fees:
- Weekdays: ¥900 (¥1,000 with access to the stone sauna)
- Weekends & Holidays: ¥1,000 (¥1,300 with stone sauna)
🔗 https://kashiba-onsen.jp/
- Weekdays: ¥900 (¥1,000 with access to the stone sauna)
Despite being students on a budget, Koedo Onsen KASHIBA offers a relaxing and affordable getaway. While the name highlights the onsen (hot spring), the facility includes much more: stone saunas, rest areas, massage and wellness services, a restaurant, and even a souvenir shop.
The onsen features 10 types of baths, including open-air options. There are 4 different stone sauna rooms, allowing you to choose based on your mood and enjoy a varied experience.
The relaxation area is also well-equipped, with tatami rooms, private spaces, reclining chairs, a manga corner, and internet access—so you can unwind however you like.
Note that operating hours may vary depending on the area of the facility, so be sure to check the official website for details.
Preventing the May Blues
As mentioned at the beginning, the May blues often stem from accumulated stress. One of the most effective ways to prevent it is by maintaining a regular and balanced lifestyle.
When your daily routine is inconsistent or your sleep schedule is severely lacking, it becomes much easier to feel both mentally and physically unwell.
To give a real-life perspective, we asked two current students to share their daily routines. While their schedules differ, both are balancing university classes with on-campus internships, club activities, and part-time jobs.
As students progress to higher years, the number of required classes generally decreases. This allows more flexibility—for example, scheduling classes only in the afternoon—giving you the freedom to create a routine that suits your personal pace and preferences.
By building a lifestyle that supports your well-being, you can better handle challenges before they turn into stress.
【3rd Year Student: K.I】
| 9:00 | Wake up, get ready |
|---|---|
| 11:00 | Leave home |
| 12:00 | Arrive at university, lunch |
| 13:20-17:00 | University classes |
| 18:30-22:30 | Part-time job |
| 24:00 | Return home, dinner |
| 01:00 | Sleep |
(CP = Conversation Partner, an on-campus part-time job)
【4th Year Student:N.M】
| 8:00 | Wake up, get ready |
| 9:00 | Leave home |
| 10:50-15:00 | University classes |
| 15:10-16:30 | CP |
| 17:00-20:30 | Club activities |
| 22:20 | Return Home |
| 22:30-23:00 | Dinner |
| 23:15-00:15 | Study |
| 00:30 | Bath |
| 01:30 | Sleep |
Final Thoughts
The “May blues” often affect new university students and those starting a new chapter in their lives. To prevent it, it’s important to avoid letting stress build up and to maintain a regular, healthy routine.
If you start to feel even a little tired or overwhelmed, try some of the strategies introduced in this article—whether it’s talking to someone, engaging in a hobby, or taking time to relax at a local facility.
By taking care of your mind and body, you can make your university life not only more manageable but also more fulfilling.
Times Of TIU 
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