Asking isn't always easy, but it could change a life.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Thursday marks R U Ok? Day and this year's theme is around "Are they really ok? Ask them today" to encourage all Australians to think about how the people in their world are truly going.
Headspace Bendigo Mental Health Clinician Andrew Ryan said the day was a great way to start conversations, build your support network and check in with friends, family and even strangers.
"At headspace Bendigo we encourage the R U OK Day message: to start a conversation that could change a life - not just on R U OK Day, but any day," he said.
"By having these conversations with those close to us it can help break down some of the barriers around mental health.
"You don't have to have all the answers right away, but finding the time to check in and listen is so helpful.
"It can also help build better support networks for those who may be struggling and support them to reach out to professional help.
While mental health should be a priority for everyone, every day, R U OK? Day is a national reminder to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times.
R U OK? Day community ambassador Megan Barrow said the day was a way to help teach people of the importance of staying connected.
"The day is about having conversations to help people through life's ups and downs and we all truly believe these conversations can save lives... they can be started with just a few words," she said.
Ms Barrow said over her time at the organsiation, the day itself has grown immensely.
"I started sharing my story and I had done some media campaigns and started doing stuff with Beyond Blue. R U Okay? reached out to me and I have now been involved with them for eight years.
"It is great to see the day grow larger and larger."
For support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14, Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800, Suicide Call Back Service, 1300 659 467, Mensline Australia 1300 78 9978, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Bookmark bendigoadvertiser.com.au
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter @BgoAddy
- Follow us on Instagram @bendigoadvertiser
- Join us on Facebook
- If you're a subscriber, join our subscriber-only Facebook group.
- Follow us on Google News
Allanah Sciberras
Journalist reporting on crime, local council and general news for daily newspaper, The Bendigo Advertiser. Contact me via allanah.sciberras@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Journalist reporting on crime, local council and general news for daily newspaper, The Bendigo Advertiser. Contact me via allanah.sciberras@austcommunitymedia.com.au
