|
|
 |
 |
Princess has adjustment disorder
By Associated Press
Published July 31, 2004
TOKYO - Japanese Crown Princess Masako, who disappeared from public view seven months ago, is suffering from a psychological disorder brought on by the pressures of royal life, the palace said Friday.
It has long been common knowledge in Japan that Masako was unhappy, but the statement from the Imperial Household Agency was the first medical explanation for her long absence from her official duties.
The agency said Masako, 40, has a stress-induced adjustment disorder and has experienced bouts of depression and anxiety. She is undergoing counseling and taking prescription drugs.
Palace spokesman Mitsuhiro Saito said the doctors disclosed Masako's condition after getting permission from the princess and her husband, Crown Prince Naruhito.
The new revelations offer another peek at the turmoil behind the palace walls.
Naruhito, who is second-in-line to the throne, has said Masako was exhausted from trying to adjust to imperial life and the pressures of producing an heir. Masako and Naruhito, 44, have a 2-year-old daughter, but women cannot inherit the throne.
Before a European trip in May, Naruhito lashed out at palace officials for restricting his wife's activities, saying they wanted to "deny her character." He also blamed them for her ill health.
On Friday, the palace said its top priority was letting the princess have her private time to regain strength.
"We are considering changes to the princess' official duties," the agency said, but offered no details.
Recently, the princess has felt well enough to play tennis - a sign she is recovering, the agency said.
Masako, a former diplomat who was educated at Harvard and Oxford and is fluent in several languages, has occasionally alluded to the stress of royal life since she married the crown prince in 1993.
She had one miscarriage before giving birth to Princess Aiko in December 2001.
[Last modified July 30, 2004, 23:54:10]
World and national headlines
U.N. gives Sudan 30-day ultimatum
The best way to repel sharks may be dead shark
Princess has adjustment disorder
IraqIn surprise Iraq visit, Powell vows faster aid
Nation in briefHomeland Security chief said to be stressed
World in briefDetainee gets to tell his side
© 2006 • All Rights Reserved • St. Petersburg Times
490 First Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33701 • 727-893-8111
|
|
|
