In a society where mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall well-being, innovative campaigns are emerging to bridge the gap between physical fitness and psychological support. One such initiative is “Your Push Is Power,” a campaign that links the simple act of doing push-ups with the profound impact of supporting mental health and preventing suicide. This article explores the details of the “Your Push Is Power” campaign, its goals, its execution, and the broader implications of connecting exercise with mental health support.
The Push-Up Challenge: A National Movement
The “Your Push Is Power” campaign is part of The Push-Up Challenge, Australia’s largest mental health and fitness event. Each year, hundreds of thousands of Australians participate in this challenge to complete a set number of push-ups, with the 2025 challenge setting the bar at 3,214 push-ups over 23 days between June 4 – June 26. This number isn’t arbitrary; it represents the number of lives lost to suicide in Australia, according to the most recently available data . Participants also receive daily mental health facts and have the option to fundraise for selected mental health charities .
Since its launch in 2017, The Push-Up Challenge has raised more than AU$50 million and engaged approximately 700,000 participants . The 2025 edition seeks to continue this momentum, uniting Australians through physical activity and collective action.
‘Your Push Is Power’: The 2025 Campaign
The “Your Push Is Power” campaign, developed through a collaboration between Mediahub and 303 MullenLowe, aims to demonstrate that small, consistent actions, such as daily push-ups, squats, or lunges, can significantly contribute to saving lives . The integrated campaign runs across various media channels, including TV, out-of-home advertising, radio, digital audio, display ads, and social media . It showcases Australians of all ages and abilities doing push-ups in diverse settings—at work, home, schools, and public spaces—encouraging the public to “push together and push for better” .
Kylie Macey, General Manager of Mediahub Perth, emphasized that the campaign’s goal extends beyond mere awareness. It seeks to foster a national movement centered on mental health, encouraging people to show up, initiate conversations, and prioritize mental well-being . The campaign also includes a national sponsorship with ARN radio hosts Will & Woody, aiming to amplify its reach and authenticity .
Creative Inspiration
The creative team at 303 MullenLowe, Ellysia Burton and Sarah Cassell, explained that the “Your Push Is Power” theme was born from a desire to address feelings of helplessness surrounding mental health . The campaign highlights the power in the micro-moments of participating in The Push-Up Challenge, emphasizing that every bead of sweat and shaky arm contributes to making a difference. The creative approach celebrates the grit and gains achieved through collective effort .
Phoebe Adams, Head of Marketing and Partnerships at The Push-Up Challenge, described the event as iconic, bringing people together to raise awareness and funds for mental health. She expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with 303 MullenLowe, aiming to create a memorable campaign that inspires even greater participation .
The Mechanics of the Challenge
Participating in The Push-Up Challenge is straightforward. Individuals and teams register for free and commit to completing 3,214 push-ups (or modified exercises) over the 23-day period . The challenge is designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants of all fitness levels. Those unable to perform traditional push-ups can substitute with sit-ups, squats, or other tailored exercises .
The Push-Up Challenge app provides daily push-up targets that correspond with mental health facts, offering participants both a physical and educational experience . This combination of exercise and information aims to reduce stigma, promote help-seeking behaviors, and ensure that individuals experiencing mental health challenges know they are not alone .
Linking Exercise and Mental Health
The “Your Push Is Power” campaign underscores the well-established link between physical activity and mental health. Research indicates that regular exercise can significantly improve mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and enhance overall psychological well-being .
- Endorphin Release: Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which act as natural mood elevators and stress reducers .
- Reduced Depression Risk: Studies have shown that physically active individuals have a lower chance of developing depression compared to their less active counterparts .
- Improved Mental Resilience: Setting and achieving fitness goals, such as completing The Push-Up Challenge, can boost self-confidence and mental resilience .
- Stress Reduction: Exercise provides an opportunity to focus on physical movement, allowing individuals to disconnect from stressors and clear their minds .
Moreover, engaging in physical activity with others, as encouraged by The Push-Up Challenge, can enhance social connections, reduce feelings of loneliness, and provide emotional support—all of which are crucial for mental well-being .
Impact and Fundraising
Since its inception, The Push-Up Challenge has made a substantial impact on mental health awareness and support in Australia. The funds raised through the challenge support various mental health organizations, including Lifeline, headspace, and The Push for Better Foundation . These organizations provide vital services such as crisis support, mental health programs for young people, and initiatives aimed at improving mental health outcomes across the country .
Fundraising is an optional but highly encouraged component of The Push-Up Challenge. Participants can solicit donations from friends, family, and colleagues, amplifying their impact and fostering a broader community of support .
Beyond Push-Ups: A Holistic Approach to Mental Health
While The Push-Up Challenge centers around physical activity, it also promotes a more holistic approach to mental health. The daily mental health facts shared through the challenge encourage participants to reflect on various aspects of well-being, including kindness, social connection, and self-compassion .
- Kindness: Research suggests that performing acts of kindness can boost happiness and foster a sense of belonging .
- Social Connection: Strengthening friendships and feeling connected to others can reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall mental health .
- Self-Compassion: Treating oneself with kindness and compassion can boost self-esteem and a sense of identity .
By integrating these elements into The Push-Up Challenge, the campaign encourages participants to adopt a more comprehensive and proactive approach to their mental well-being.
The Bigger Picture
The “Your Push Is Power” campaign and The Push-Up Challenge exemplify innovative approaches to addressing mental health challenges. By leveraging the power of physical activity, community engagement, and education, these initiatives are making a tangible difference in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and providing support to those in need.
As mental health continues to gain prominence as a global health priority, campaigns like “Your Push Is Power” serve as a reminder that even small actions can have a significant impact. Whether it’s doing a few push-ups each day, starting a conversation about mental health, or donating to a worthy cause, everyone can play a role in pushing for better mental health outcomes.
