It's ok not to be ok...do not overlook the warning signs from your heart!

Naomi Osaka

Naomi Osaka of Japan plays a forehand return to Sorana Cirstea of Romania during their second round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026. Source: AP / Dita Alangkara/AP/AAP Image

In 2021, tennis star Naomi Osaka famously declared "it's OK not to be OK," in an essay she wrote for the TIME magazine.


These words carry a powerful message; even top athletes, who are constantly pressured to be strong, are only human. There is absolutely no shame in experiencing mental health struggles or speaking out about them.

Mental health challenges also hit close to home for all of us, not just those in the spotlight.

Significant life changes, such as migrating to another culture, can be particularly taxing on one’s mental well-being. What symptoms should we look out for, and what steps should we take if we feel our mental health is suffering?

We bring you this report, featuring the voices of supporters we spoke with at the Australian Open.

Listen to the full story on our podcast.

Check out the following links for more information:

If you or someone you know is seeking support with mental health, please contact the following organisations. Call 000 in an emergency.

Listen to SBS Japanese Audio on Tue, Thu and Fri from 1pm on SBS 3.

Replays from 10pm on Tue, Thu and Sat on SBS1. Listen to past stories from our podcast. Download the free SBS Audio App and don't forget to visit SBS Japanese Facebook and Instagram page!


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