Crown Princess Masako has been diagnosed by doctors as having an adjustment disorder, a psychological condition caused by stress, the palace said Friday.
Masako, 40, who hasn't been seen in public or performed her official duties since December, is recovering but probably will need more time to rest, the Imperial Household Agency said in a statement.
Palace doctors have found that Masako has an adjustment disorder, which is usually compounded by depression or anxiety, the agency said. She has been undergoing counseling and has been given medication.
"We will consider revamping her official duties," the agency said.
However, in a sign that the princess is feeling better, she has recently played tennis for short periods, the agency said.
Masako told palace officials she wanted her condition to be disclosed to the public, Kyodo News agency reported, citing unidentified sources close to the princess.
Palace officials refused to offer any further details.
Crown Prince Naruhito has said Masako was exhausted from trying to adjust to imperial life and the pressures of producing a male heir to the throne. The couple has a two-year-old daughter.
Before his European trip in May, Naruhito lashed out at palace officials for trying to "deny her character" by restricting his wife's activities, and blamed them for her ill health.
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