Japan injury and sickness allowance claims driven by mental health

In Japan, mental and behavioral disorders have become the leading cause for claiming injury and sickness allowance, accounting for 41.27% of cases. This represents a nearly ninefold increase compared to the 4.45% recorded 30 years ago.

To qualify for the allowance, an individual must undergo a three-day waiting period, with payments beginning on the fourth day. Benefits are calculated based on the average standard monthly remuneration and can be received for a cumulative total of up to one year and six months.

Under current regulations, the period is calculated cumulatively, meaning if a person returns to work temporarily, the remaining entitlement can be carried forward. Additionally, employees may continue to receive benefits after leaving a company provided they have been insured for at least one year prior to resignation and meet specific eligibility criteria at the time of departure.