The Stress of a Triple Commute Time Was Real! A Personal Account from Someone Who Experienced Depression
I believe that my long commute may have been one of the causes of my depression.
In Hiroyuki's book, "100 Words to Turn Your Life Around," it says, "When your commute time shortens, your life time extends."
Quoted from "100 Words to Turn Your Life Around" by Hiroyuki (Gakken Plus, 2022)
When your commute time shortens, your life time extends. If you are riding a crowded train, your mental health will likely be worn down as well. Furthermore, even if an opportunity that could make your life interesting comes along, if you don't have the time, you won't be able to seize it.
◼️ Personal Experience
During my time as a company employee, my commute from home to the office was two hours one way. That's four hours round trip.
After moving, my commute time increased, and as a result, I felt things like "This is long" or "I'm frustrated by being packed in like a sardine."
Looking back, it was stressful.
The causes of commuting stress are not just crowded trains, but various factors such as delays that intertwine to place a burden on the mind.
◼️ What is the connection between commuting and stress?
According to a survey by the Xymax Real Estate Institute, compared to those with a commute of less than 20 minutes, the commuting stress of those with a 60 to 90-minute commute is on average three times higher.
This is evidence that a long commute has a negative impact on mental health.
Even if your commute isn't 20 minutes, if it's under 40 minutes, your stress is 35% lower compared to those with a 60 to 90-minute commute.
◼️ Summary
While I think some people may find commuting stress to be within an acceptable range, there is a relationship between commuting and being a cause of mental illness.
Currently, I work at a Type A support office for people with disabilities, and I am able to ride a train where I can sit down even during rush hour.
As a result, even if I am tired at the office, I am mentally stable, and I have gained the peace of mind of knowing that I don't have to ride a crowded train on the way home.
With more physical time available, I have also become able to pick up and drop off my child at daycare.
As a countermeasure, I would like to reduce the risk of depression recurrence in future general employment by choosing a workplace that is as close as possible and places less burden on me.
If you are struggling with your commute time, I recommend that you do not keep it to yourself and instead consult with people around you or a mental health clinic.
I hope this is helpful.
Thank you as always for reading.