#Japan #Tokyo #HIDE #Tell Me Link #Mental Support

NPO Young Mental Support Association: To Inspire Hope in Youths

The NPO Young Mental Support Association, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, has celebrated a significant milestone with the rebranding of its LINE consultation service to 'Tell Me Link.' This change reflects a decade of dedicated support for young individuals facing mental health challenges. Along with this new name, the association announced that the renowned song 'TELL ME' by hide will serve as the official theme song for the initiative.

Background of the Association

Japan witnesses one of the highest suicide rates among developed nations, emphasizing the urgency of the association's mission. The organization began by reaching out to youth grappling with suicidal thoughts or those who lost their safe spaces due to issues like abuse and family discord.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the nature of inquiries received has diversified significantly, ranging from topics related to bullying, peer relationships, extracurricular activities, love, gender issues, physical health, and social media concerns. The association receives between 10,000 to 20,000 consultations each month, with a notable reach across regions from Hokkaido to Okinawa, ensuring that support is accessible to all areas of Japan. Notably, last December alone saw 17,741 consultations, with a spike in activity occurring during late night to afternoon hours.

Some youths have expressed fears about being 'found out' when seeking help due to concerns that the association's name would be readily identifiable to family or friends. Therefore, in recognition of such concerns, the rebranding to 'Tell Me Link' resonates with a desire to create a safer and more user-friendly avenue for those seeking support.

The Significance of 'Tell Me Link'

The name 'Tell Me Link' combines the concepts of sharing one's feelings ('Tell Me') with the notion of connection ('Link'). This initiative aims to provide a 'third safe space' where individuals can freely express their emotions. A standout feature of this approach is that the organization prides itself on its warm and approachable support, akin to a caring older sibling rather than a distant counselor. Furthermore, it has implemented a dedicated counselor system, enabling continuity in support, thus ensuring that individuals can pick up conversations from where they last left off, fostering a deeper trust-based relationship.

'TELL ME' by Hide: An Emotional Anchor

The decision to use hide's classic track 'TELL ME' as the theme song is emblematic of the deep connection between the song's powerful message and the ethos of 'Tell Me Link.' Written by a legendary artist, the track captures the essence of supporting one’s emotional cries for help. This collaboration came to fruition when Masahiro Matsumoto, CEO of Headwax Organization and hide's younger brother, resonated with the principles of this initiative and graciously allowed its use.
Matsumoto has been a supporter of youth empowerment since the early days of the association, and the decision to utilize 'TELL ME' serves as a potent symbol of their longstanding bond. The song's ability to echo the message of 'listening to voices' aligns perfectly with the mission of this new counseling initiative.

Achievements and Future Directions

Since its inception in 2012, the NPO has been dedicated to supporting over 40,000 children and youths across Japan, addressing a broad spectrum of issues through its LINE counseling platform. Operating 24/7, the service covers challenges related to home life, school, relationships, loneliness, and health concerns.

In light of the new branding and introduction of the theme song, Tell Me Link aims to intensify its outreach and integration of youth voices into societal dialogues. Current initiatives include the establishment of a graduate team of former clients, who collaborate on public relations and event management. This represents a shift towards a 'circular mechanism' whereby young individuals transition from being recipients of support to becoming advocates and protectors within their communities.

The youth-led community of 'Tell Me Link' is expanding, with around 40 participants ranging from elementary school to university age actively engaging in several online clubs.

In the coming years, the organization will continue to unveil new projects dedicated to empowering youths, solidifying their role from those in need of help to ones offering support and connectivity.

Tell Me Link Overview

• - Name: Tell Me Link
• - Target Group: Youth aged 10-29 across Japan
• - Format: Anonymous, free, LINE consultations (24/7)
• - Features: Dedicated support from counselors / warm, familial approach
• - URL: Tell Me Link

NPO Overview

• - Organization: NPO Young Mental Support Association
• - Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Established: 2015 (activity started in 2012)
• - Chairperson: Saori Kosugi
• - Activities: Youth support initiatives / LINE counseling services / online community management / counselor training programs / solitude prevention / workshops and awareness activities
• - Organization URL: Wakamono Support