'R U OK?' Day

  

Just in case you haven't heard, today is 'R U OK?' Day here is Australia. I say 'is' because you still have time to ask someone if they are ok. Of course you can ask them tomorrow as well - but the aim of today is partly to remind us not to leave it too long to ask this question of people, rather feel free to ask more regularly.

It's kinda sad that we have to have a day to remind us to ask each other how were are going... but I am glad we do. It does some helpful things like:

• highlights the importance of talking to each other 
• gives people permission to ask in situations they normally wouldn't feel like they could
• reminds us to open our eyes and ears, and even mouths, more to the many people who are struggling - often silently [hence the need to open our eyes... as well as our mouths to ask the question and speak words of hope, support and encouragement]

If you haven't checked out the official website it is worth doing so. It has some good information and resources to help us help each other through the tougher times of life. Check it out here

This particular resource page from the website is really helpful if you want some quick practical tips on how to say 'R U OK?' Yep, I know that sounds a little silly. But there are lots of ways to find out if someone is OK and to really Listen. Sometimes the question 'are you OK?' doesn't help someone open up. Sometimes it's how we are portraying ourselves that may prevent someone from opening up. That's why this is a useful fact sheet to look at.    

I've recently asked 2 questions related to 'R U OK?' day via twitter and facebook. So I'll blog some more about this later.

In the mean time...

• If there is something weighing you down today find someone you trust and tell them, even if they haven't asked 'are you ok?'. 
• If you have noone to share your struggle with right now, LifeLine hotline has great people who listen and care. Call 13 11 14
• If you haven't tried to genuinely find out how someone is going today here are a few questions you could ask besides 'are you ok?' that may help start a good conversation
• what's been worrying you lately, if anything?
• what's been the high point and the low point of your day?
• If you could change anything about your life now, what would it be?
• what's 1 thing that has been weighing you down lately?

 "Connection and open, honest conversations are good for our wellbeing – whether or not we’re struggling with a problem. It helps us to feel valued and supported by the people around us. There's also an emerging body of research which links supportive social relationships and a sense of social connection with protective factors in suicide prevention." ['R U OK? Day' Website FAG page]