Japan Reports Nationwide Statistics on Psychiatric Hospital Abuses

January 29, 2026

The Japan Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has, for the first time, compiled nationwide statistics on abuse by psychiatric hospital staff following mandatory reporting requirements introduced under the revised Mental Health and Welfare Act. In fiscal year 2024, prefectures and designated cities received 6,258 reports or consultations alleging abuse of persons with mental disabilities, of which 260 cases were officially recognized as abuse, involving 413 victims split roughly evenly between men and women.

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