Thursday 9th September 2021 is R U OK? Day and suicide prevention organisation R U OK? is asking us to check with our family, friends and colleagues to ask how they’re doing.
It’s an important time to pause, reflect and consider if you need to reach out to people in your community and ask them R U OK?
It’s a very sad statistic that every 40 seconds someone dies of suicide. Suicide is almost always preventable when the suicidal person can get the right kind of support and treatment.
But the first step is to find out who you know is at risk, and to do that, you need to ask R U OK?
Now even if the people in your life aren’t suicidal, it’s a great opportunity to connect with those you care about and provide a little boost.
How to ask R U OK?
The R U OK? website gives some great tips on how to approach and ask people how they are doing.
If someone you know needs extra support, make sure you have information about other organisations that can help. You also want to make sure you follow up after your conversation to see how they are doing or if they want to talk some more.
So asking R U OK? is the start of an ongoing conversation that can help improve the mental health and wellbeing of all Australians.
It’s ok to say, “I’m not ok.”
If someone asks you R U OK? and you’re not OK, it’s important to open up and share what you’re going through.
Talking with someone about what’s going on for you can make a huge difference and lessen the burden and stress you may be carrying.
Talking about a difficulty or issue is not a sign of weakness. In fact, people who report high levels of wellbeing and mental health are able to open up and ask for support when they need it. Getting help is a sign of intelligence and resilience.
Do you need help?
Do you or a loved one need help? Find help now. R U OK? is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to encouraging and empowering all people to ask “are you ok?” of anyone struggling with life. Our vision is a world where everyone is connected and is protected from suicide. Find out more: ruok.org.au
What is Australia Counselling?
Australia Counselling connects you with counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists in your local area. Search our national directory today to find a counsellor in your local area to start to resolve your issues.
World Suicide Prevention Day is an awareness day observed on 10 September every year, in order to provide worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides, with various activities around the world since 2003.
Call 000 if you or a loved ones life is in danger. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 for crisis support, or text 0477 13 11 14 (6pm-midnight AEST) to text with a crisis supporter.
Photo credit: Flickr
Article updated on: 19th March 2021
