This Thursday the 8th of September is R U OK? Day.
R U OK? Day is an Australian national day of action held every year on the second Thursday of September to remind people to regularly check in with colleagues, family and friends and ask ‘are you ok?’
R U OK?’s vision is a world where we’re all connected and are protected from suicide and self-harm. Their mission is to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them and support anyone struggling with life.
Their goals:
- Boost our confidence to meaningfully connect and ask about life’s ups and down
- Nurture our sense of responsibility to regularly connect and support others
- Strengthen our sense of belonging because we know people are there for us
- Be relevant, strong and dynamic
Did you know?
- 1 in 4 young Australians (16-24 yrs) have a mental health condition (beyondblue).
- A quarter of young Australians say they are unhappy with their lives
- 45% of adult Australians will experience a mental illness at some stage in their lives
- 1 in 4 people will experience an anxiety disorder in their lifetime
- 1 in 16 young Australians (16-24 yrs) is currently experiencing depression
- Suicide is the biggest killer of young Australians (15-24 yrs) and accounts for the deaths of more young people than car accidents.
- Suicide is the biggest killer of Australians aged 15 to 44 years (ABS 2013)
How can a conversation change a life?
Research shows that people who have strong relationships are less likely to consider suicide as an option when struggling with life. Regular, face-to-face conversations can help us to build and maintain strong relationships with friends and family.
How can I start a conversation?
Check out tips for connecting with someone or watch stories of inspiration.
Where can I go to for support?
Some conversations just become too big for friends or family, and if you are worried about someone or you would like to find out more information please click here to find additional support networks.
What else can you do on R U OK Day?
- Wear something yellow
- Have a conversation with someone in your work team and ask R U OK?
- Take the time to call a family member or friend during the day and ask R U OK?
- For more information on how you can get involved.
