Since its foundation in 2009, R U OK? has been working to raise awareness and start conversations about suicide and mental health. They are a not-for-profit organisation that seeks to remind people to watch out for each other – even with issues that aren’t always easy to spot. By encouraging people to have regular real-life conversations and develop meaningful relationships, R U OK? hopes to help Australians cope with the emotional rollercoaster that life inevitably is.
The core way you can participate in R U OK? Day is by starting a conversation. It’s that simple. If you suspect a friend at work is struggling, ask them if they are okay. Listen to them and talk openly about how they could approach the issues they are experiencing. If suicide is a stigmatised issue in your workplace, begin a discussion with your colleagues; knowing that it’s alright to open up about their feelings at work could really change somebody’s life.
A big thank you to the entire team at our Newcastle facility, Australia for supporting and raising the awareness of such an important issue.