TELL Lifeline: Prioritizing Mental Health in 2026
As 2026 begins, many people are carrying over stress from the previous year that has built up but not yet been released. Rising living costs, stagnant wages and long hours fuel the sense of being constantly switched on, making it difficult to see the positives in life. Surveys from the Cabinet Office show that more than half of households feel uncertain about the year ahead, especially financially. That uncertainty often sits in the background of daily life, weighing heavily on families and individuals seeking mental health support in Japan.
Returning to Simple Habits
When people talk about what helps them feel grounded, the answers are often simpler than they appear. Rather than setting big goals or resolutions, we invite you to choose everyday habits that provide structure and meaning without adding pressure.
Prioritizing your well-being can start with something steady that supports your happiness without costing anything. This might look like taking a weekly walk in a nearby park or calling a friend or family member once a week to stay connected. For others, relief comes from eating one meal slowly without distractions, setting aside 10 minutes to breathe before the day begins or strictly keeping one day each month for rest or connection. As the year unfolds, be gentle with yourself, take notice of what helps and share the year’s ups and downs with people you trust.
Opportunities to Become a Lifeline Volunteer
As the new year begins, you may be seeking out new experiences or challenges. For those looking to provide mental health support in Japan, our Lifeline Support Worker Training Program is currently accepting applications for our upcoming Spring 2026 course, which begins on Feb 7.
This program offers the chance to learn valuable listening skills and join a supportive community. Above all, it is an opportunity to be there for people needing a compassionate, non-judgmental space to be heard. If you want to make a difference and hear more about what is involved in becoming a Lifeline Volunteer, please join our information session on April 14 to meet our team and hear more.
Why Your Contribution Matters
TELL’s Lifeline and Outreach services provide critical support for people dealing with suicidal thoughts, relationship breakups, domestic violence, sexual assault, workplace issues, bullying, loneliness and gender issues. We believe having someone to talk to when you are alone or feeling vulnerable can make all the difference in getting through a difficult time.
If volunteering is not the right fit for you at this moment, you can still become a TELL Hero. Your donation is vital to help TELL keep our NPO status in Japan and ensures everyone has an opportunity for a brighter future.
Donate to Support TELL’s Mission
FAQ
What services does TELL provide?
TELL provides critical mental health support in Japan through Lifeline and Outreach services. We support individuals dealing with a wide range of issues, including suicidal thoughts, loneliness, domestic violence, workplace issues, and more.
When does the next volunteer training start?
Our Spring 2026 Lifeline Support Worker Training Program begins in February. We are hosting an information session on January 8th for those interested in learning more.
What will I learn in the training program?
Volunteers learn valuable listening skills and how to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for people to be heard. You will also become part of a supportive community of like-minded individuals.
If things feel heavy or unclear, who can I talk to?
If you are struggling, TELL is here to talk. We believe that having someone to connect with when you are feeling vulnerable is essential for getting through difficult times. Check their chat hours here.
If you enjoyed this article, please let us know and share your thoughts at hello@goconnect.jp.