Although it literally means “May disease” in Japanese, Gogatsubyo is not an actual disease. Typically, fiscal year and school year starts in April in Japan, so spring is a time for fresh start for many people. Gogatsubyo is a mental symptom caused by maladjustment to new environments in spring, and it is commonly seen among people starting in a new environment like new company or new school. It is called “May disease” because the depression-like symptom is commonly seen in May, especially after the Golden Week.
For preventing gogatsubyo, it is most important not to get overstressed. Talking to your friends is a good way to release stress, for example.