Hikikomori UKWhen the world feels too much for them, you're not alone
Hikikomori UK is a volunteer-led network founded by family members affected by prolonged extreme social withdrawal. We act as a bridge between lived experience, research, professional practice, policy, and community understanding. Through information-sharing, awareness-raising, and collaboration, we work to reduce stigma, deepen understanding of hikikomori, and contribute to better recognition and responses for individuals and families affected by it.
At Hikikomori UK, we believe that understanding, acceptance, and social connection are essential to helping people move forward at their own pace.
Here for every stage of the journey
A place to connect with others who understand.
Our monthly online peer discussion group brings together parents and carers affected by prolonged social withdrawal, and our termly Q&A sessions (Hikikomori Connect) bring together experts and families. Through shared experiences, information, and discussion, we aim to foster understanding and reduce the sense of isolation many families experience.
Learn MoreUnderstanding begins with awareness.
Evidence-based research, professional insight, and lived-experience accounts to help you understand Hikikomori and what it means for families.
Explore ResourcesHelp us build more tailored responses.
We work to promote greater awareness and understanding of prolonged extreme social withdrawal and its impact on families. We welcome collaboration and insights from professionals, researchers, policymakers, charities, and others with an interest in this field.
ContributeA bridge between isolation and connection
We work to connect lived experience with research, policy, professional practice, and community action. By bringing together families, researchers, educators, health and care professionals, policymakers, charities, and local communities, we aim to advance understanding of prolonged extreme social withdrawal and contribute to more informed, inclusive, and effective responses.
Our Team
Marie
I am originally from France and I live in Warwickshire, where I work in higher education supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds. I have been supporting a sibling with prolonged extreme social withdrawal for several years. Drawing on my family’s experience and connections with a French organisation for affected families, I am committed to improving understanding and raising awareness of this often-overlooked issue in the UK.
Helena
Originally from Poland, I have lived in Greater Manchester for 19 years and work in People Services within local government. My interest in hikikomori stems from supporting a loved one affected by the condition over the last five years, an experience that has highlighted the gaps in existing support. Drawing on both lived and professional experience, I am committed to influencing more effective, coordinated responses across education, health, social care, and the voluntary sector.
Patrizia
I am Italian and I have lived in the UK since 2005. I am a single parent and work in a post-16 SEN college, as well as running an online Italian language school. I am also a qualified mindfulness coach. I encountered Hikikomori when my youngest son began withdrawing from school and social life, and I am passionate about sharing knowledge and helping families feel less alone.
Ready to take the first step?
Whether you are looking for information, would like to share your experience, or want to help our network grow, we would love to hear from you. We welcome contact from families, individuals, professionals, researchers, and organisations interested in increasing understanding of prolonged extreme social withdrawal.