R U OK? #theyearofCOVID-19

R U OK? Day is tomorrow, Thursday 10 September 2020. It’s a national day of action where Australians are reminded that every day it is OK to ask, “Are you OK?”. And given these “unprecedented times” (!!!!), and the especially serious and sad consequences associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and now recession, it seems more appropriate than ever to check in on friends, family, and colleagues around us.

This year’s message is ‘THERE’S MORE TO SAY AFTER R U OK?’

While seemingly simply, creating a culture of just checking in on people, perhaps starting a conversation, can really help to create a better, healthier workspace and community, especially when we are going through tough times.

This year has been a bit like this

Given what 2020 has turned out to be like, it’s more important than ever to stay connected (especially for those in lockdown!). You don’t have to be an expert communicator or smooth talker to make someone feel supported, and open up, even just a bit.

And if someone actually tells you they aren’t ok, you can follow the R U OK?’s conversation steps to show them they’re supported and help them find strategies to better manage the load. If they are ok, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask.

What can I do to help?

  • If you really want to make a difference, you can help to champion the message in your workplace, school and community every day of the year. You don’t have to do it alone because R U OK? have some amazing resources you can use.
  • Got a feeling that someone you know or care about it isn’t behaving as they normally would? Perhaps they seem out of sorts? More agitated or withdrawn? Or they’re just not themselves. Trust that gut instinct and act on it. Learn more about the signs and when it’s time to ask R U OK? here.
  • Download R U OK?’s workplace resources which you can print out for your own workplace.

You could even buy that someone you’re a worried about KitKat – that is likely to help at least a little bit!

Kit Kat has partnered with R U OK? and released limited edition wrappers to encourage conversations about mental health ahead of R U OK? Day

Should you, or anyone you know need help – call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.