Being far away from home can be challenging, especially when you have a pressing problem that you need support with. Luckily many foreigners have trodden the path before you and a number of groups have been set up; ranging from supporting those affected by breast cancer or AIDS, to lifelines designed to offer any kind of support you need. For what’s available, see the table below. More comprehensive listings can be found in Metropolis magazine (www.metropolis.co.jp), under ‘Support’ in the Help section of its Classifieds. Some groups that are worthy of a special mention include Tokyo English Life Line (TELL), the AIDS Hotline and The Tyler Foundation.

TELL (www.telljp.com) is a non-profit group providing phone support for a broad range of problems, and is one of the most comprehensive support networks in Tokyo. They have a vast pool of knowledge to draw from, and are able to recommend people and organisations to see if you have a specific problem.

Talking about AIDS is kind of taboo in Japan and you may feel you have limited support. But with the AIDS Hotline, a 24 hour, free phone information number (for foreigners), you’ll always be able to reach someone. They provide counselling and information, and even if you don’t have AIDS they can answer any questions you may have. They also have a website, visit www.jhelp.com.
If your child has cancer and you need someone to talk to, contact the Tyler Foundation (www.tylershineon.org). They support both children with cancer and their families.