Japan was already battling loneliness and seclusion. It was rendered worse by the epidemic.

Japan has an estimated 1.5 million hikikomori, or shut-ins, who have been isolated for at least six months, according to a new government survey. The survey found that 2% of people aged 15 to 64 identified as hikikomori, with a slight increase among those aged 15 to 39. The top reason for social isolation was Covid-19, with more than a fifth of respondents citing the pandemic as a significant factor in their reclusive lifestyle. Experts have previously told CNN that hikikomori is often thought to stem from psychological issues such as depression and anxiety, but societal factors play a role too, such as Japan’s patriarchal norms and demanding work culture.