“R U OK?” This is the question Australians are being encouraged to ask on Thursday, September 15.
R U OK? Day is a national day of action suggesting we connect with our friends and loved ones, reaching out to anyone doing it tough, who may even be thinking about taking their own life and simply asking R U OK?
We know people who are vulnerable need to be supported. But how do we do that? A good way of ‘breaking the ice’ is to start a general conversation, perhaps over a cup of coffee, asking ‘How are you going?’ or ‘Are you OK?’ Try to listen without judgement and, if you are concerned, encourage them to see their doctor or offer to make an appointment with their GP.
We want anyone who is struggling to get some help.
Follow-up is essential. Nothing will change unless someone acts and it’s good to know we can do something.
SANE Australia is a proud supporter of this suicide prevention initiative and encourages all Australians to get involved and ask ‘R U OK?’ — on any day, but on September 15 especially.
Visit the R U OK? website (www.ruokday.com.au) for more details or go to www.sane.org
Barbara Hocking
Executive Director
SANE Australia
