2023 Volume 63 Issue 6 Pages 499-506
This talk discusses the ways in which psychosomatic medicine has impacted public policy and government as well as what has been achieved because of it, based on my experience in medical practice and as a politician. The specific examples discussed include the push to recognize psychosomatic medicine as an accepted specialty, efforts toward the prevention of karoshi (death from overwork) and child abuse, and the establishment of a national system for certified public psychologists. I also report contemporary issues, such as lookism, eating disorders, work-style reforms, and remote work. Next, I discuss digital transformation (DX) in psychosomatic medicine and the possibilities for treatment as digital transformation continues. For example, with an increasing number of smartphone applications, it is becoming easier for patients to monitor their own status and guide them toward behavioral changes. I also contend that the growing pace of digitalization is, in fact, an opportunity to have a positive impact on issues, such as isolation and loneliness.
In conclusion, from the perspective of psychosomatic medicine, I propose compact cities as a way to create environments that are better for living. My conclusion is that it is critical that psychosomatic medical knowledge is reflected in urban planning, which would enable people to live in cities of the right size and leverage remote work to find fulfillment.
