Today Is R U OK? Day
Today is R U OK? Day – a day designed to take the first step in checking in and reconnecting with those around us.
Sometimes it’s the simplest words that are the hardest to say, but today we are being encouraged to start a conversation with someone if we notice they are struggling to cope.
“R U OK? Day is about reaching out and reconnecting with family, friends and colleagues to make sure they’re okay.” Minister Ley said.
“The more we talk, the more people are encouraged to seek help,” Prime Minister Turnbull said. “Checking in with each other is something we can all do to help those around us. So if you think someone you know might need help, ask the question: ‘Are you ok?’”
Image via Aquabumps
What Is R U OK? Day?
R U OK? is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them and support anyone struggling with life.
R U OK? Day is a national day of action, held on the second Thursday of September each year.
R U OK? Conversation Expert Professor Nick Glozier said we’ve all got what it takes to be there for one another – because it ultimately comes down to listening and not judging what someone wants to share.
“Once you start a conversation and a mate opens up, don’t rush in or leap to conclusions,” Nick said. “It’s important that you listen to what they have to say and guide the conversation with more open questions. Don’t try and fix their problems – or provide the answers – but help them to identify what they can do to better manage the load.”
Statistics To Know:
A recent study revealed that individuals had unintentionally lost contact with the below numbers of really close friends, family or colleagues, even though they wish they hadn’t:
- None – 26%
- 1 – 3 people – 40%
- 4 – 8 people – 24%
- 9 – 15 people – 6%
- More than 15 people – 4%
Further research discovered that they’d met the people they’d lost in the following places:
- Primary or high school – 49%
- University, TAFE or similar – 28%
- Worked together – 48%
- Lived in the same neighbourhood – 27%
- Families were friends – 22%
- Were related – 15%
- Other – 6%
For more information, visit R U OK?
