Nogizaka46, the popular idol group, continues to thrive, engaging fans through mediums like live performances, variety shows, dramas, films, and modeling. Recently, the group hosted segments on their variety show "Nogizaka Under Construction," showcasing fun, light-hearted news about its members' private lives, hence bringing out their charm. The show airs every Sunday at 24:15 on various Japanese networks such as TV Tokyo, TV Osaka, and their affiliates.
With exciting initiatives to reveal more about individual member's lives and promote their growth, the show promises to keep fans engaged. Recent highlights include the announcement of the selected members for their upcoming 38th single, which adds anticipation to the buzz surrounding the group.
One of the most significant voices within this sphere is former member Himemiya Kaho, currently thriving as a psychological counselor after successfully transitioning from her idol career. Her recent segment, part of her long-running series addressing the intersection of support culture (or “oshi-katsu”) and mental health, marks the culmination of her thoughts over the past year and a half. Through her unique insights, she speaks on the evolution of community support for fans and the importance of mental well-being among both idols and their supporters.
"Oshi-katsu can sometimes lead to emotional struggles, but it can also bring joy and connection—it really depends on how you engage with it," she shares, reflecting on her own transition from idol to counselor, where these experiences shape her professional practice.
Reflecting on her experiences post-graduation from Nogizaka46, Kaho notes, "There’s much to draw from both my time as idol and as a counselor; I believe these narratives can really resonate." Her series has garnered significant attention not only for its empowering content but for its relatable approach as she navigates between two distinct yet connected worlds.
She recounts how new insights have emerged as her career progressed, noting how past experiences from her idol days informed her present work. "The moment I left Nogizaka46, I felt the pressure of meeting societal expectations and the challenges of starting anew. Yet those moments shaped my fortitude, and I aim to share this with my audience," Kaho explains.
The series has had varied themes, but the culmination dwelled on the idea of “healthy support culture.” Kaho explains how this concept leads fans to understand their feelings around idol engagement without neglecting their mental health. Encouraging fans to assess their practices, she says, "It’s fine if you find joy; just recognize it doesn't need to be detrimental to your wellbeing. I hope fans could see themselves reflected during our discussions and realize the importance of self-care first. Confiding on these matters is not only valid, but necessary."
Fans on social media have previously voiced their appreciation for Kaho’s insights, emphasizing the importance of mental health support systems. One fan remarked, “Thanks to Kaho, I feel it’s okay to address my feelings about oshi-katsu and its impact on my daily life. This connection is relieving!”
Before concluding her regular segment, Kaho emphasized, “Embracing your support culture is important as long as it nurtures you.” She reiterated the necessity of awareness around emotional struggles tied to fandom culture—a sentiment echoed by many engaged with her discussions.
With insights from Kaho leading the conversation on mental well-being within fandom, listeners are encouraged to value their emotional health, particularly when taking part in support culture. Beyond merely focusing on the enjoyment derived from idol engagement, the discussions launch necessity on having strong mental frameworks around the sometimes overwhelming nature of pop culture fandom.
Looking forward, Kaho plans to keep her audience engaged but with new, refreshing themes, transitioning soon to share different emotional wellness tools and items. She aspires to help the public manage their emotional state through items she finds beneficial during her counseling practice.
Her optimism is palpable. She reflects, “I hope to begin discussing tangible emotional aid soon. Having the right things around us can bridge the gap between aspiring for happiness and realizing it.”
With the health and mental wellness of both artists and fans gaining recognition, it becomes evident there's much to explore about the bonds formed around support culture. Many express heartfelt gratitude, not just for insight but for affirming their emotional struggles as valid. Kaho’s contribution seeks to reshape the dialogue surrounding such relationships, encouraging healthier fan participation.
Whether someone sees themselves through years of fandom or traverses the uncertain waters of emotional struggle tied to their support of idols, Kaho encourages positivity and growth. This positivity is reflected not just through the public’s response, but also through her own path as she forges stronger connections between the experiences of past worlds and the current realities clamoring for attention.
To maintain engagement, listeners are invited to continue following Kaho’s new endeavors as she delves deep not only as the voice of her generation but also as the guiding light within the converging paths of fandom and mental health narratives.