Across the globe, students of all ages are facing an escalating mental health crisis. UNICEF’s latest report highlights a striking contrast: Japan ranks 3rd out of 43 countries for children’s physical health, but only 32nd for mental well-being. In 2025, 19,188 people in Japan died by suicide, including 830 young people aged 19 and under. For the second consecutive year, Japan recorded a record number of suicides among elementary, junior-high, and high-school students, with 538 young people losing their lives. The need to protect and support our young people has never been greater.
Last year, TELL launched a national student mental health campaign to bring greater awareness, hope, and support to young people across Japan. Our goal is to foster open conversations, raise awareness to reduce stigma, and help build school communities where those working with and connecting with students know the signs that someone needs support, and where young people know it’s okay to ask for help and that they are not alone.
From September 10 to October 10, we’re inviting schools, students, parents, companies, and community members to Step Up for mental health. The Step Up Challenge is a nationwide effort to raise awareness and support youth mental health. Participants can complete 19,188 steps, individually or as a group, in remembrance of the lives lost to suicide in Japan.
We’re also encouraging everyone to get creative. Any activity that meaningfully incorporates the number 19,188 qualifies. Whether it’s a physical challenge, a classroom initiative, a workplace event, or a community gathering, your effort will help spark vital conversations and show solidarity. Participating schools, companies, and groups will also be eligible for a prize.
Let’s come together to support mental health, break the silence, and remind young people across Japan that they are not alone. Together, we can take steps toward a brighter, healthier future.