19,188 STEP UP CHALLENGE
September 10 - October 10, 2026
World Suicide Prevention Day through World Mental Health Day
Pick a day anytime between September 10 and October 10, 2026, to make a difference and challenge stigma.
Individual: ¥1,500 Children (under 12): Free
Each entry includes: Event swag (first 500 people) and the chance to win a certificate.
*Please note that event swag and prizes can be mailed within Japan only
We ask you to join us as we remember the 19,188 people who lost their lives to suicide in Japan last year, and raise awareness about suicide prevention. Whether solo or as part of a group, you can support TELL's mission as we create hope through our actions.
You can choose to commit to the challenge in a way that you find the most meaningful. One option is to use your fitness tracker by setting a one-day goal of walking 19,188 steps. However, walking isn’t the only option. Whether you’re cycling, swimming, dancing, or meditating for 19,188 seconds, or even writing a 19,188 character story–whatever you choose to do, it all matters.
After signing up, let us know what you will be doing, and don't forget to take photos or videos to document the process. Together, we can show support for mental health in our community.
different ways to compete
All teams and individuals will have the chance to participate in our challenges! Got a friendly rivalry with another company, school, or neighbor? Want to see which department is the fittest or most persuasive? We have a way for you to resolve these questions!
MOST STEPS individual
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Individual walker with the highest number of steps in one day.
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Submit a photo or screenshot of your step tracker to qualify at this link by October 15, 2026.
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The winner will be announced on October 20, 2026.
MOVE FOR MENTAL HEALTH NATIONWIDE CERTIFICATE
These certificates cover the Step Up Challenge. *Individuals can compete in the community category.*
Fundraising CERTIFICATE
(Company, School, and Community/Individual)
Sign up to create a fundraising campaign here. View our Donorbox tutorial. Share your campaign with family, friends, colleagues, followers, and the Obasan down the street. The top fundraiser in each category (Company, School, Community/Individual) wins a Fundraising Certificate.
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Campaigns are open until October 15, 2026
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Winners for each category will be announced on October 20, 2026
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The top fundraiser in each category wins this certificate
MOST IMPACTFUL Awareness RAISING CERTIFICATE
(Company, School, and Community/Individual)
Raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention in the community. Share with us about your campaign at this link.
Awareness Certificate entries will be judged based on factors such as:
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Creativity
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Number of participants
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Social media engagement, etc
Get creative! Here are some examples of what groups have done in the past.
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Photo walk across Tokyo
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Family sports day in the park
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School-wide Walk-a-Thon and Mental Health Week
All submissions are due by October 15, 2026. Category winners will be announced by October 20, 2026.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION!
Use #STEPUP2026 on social media to add your mental health walk to the TELL SNS community!
