R U OK?
A conversation could change a life.
Bayside City Council supports R U OK? Day, a national day of action that inspires and empowers everyone, every day to ask, ‘are you OK?’ and start a meaningful conversation whenever they spot the signs that someone they care about might be struggling with life.
By taking the time for an R U OK? conversation and genuinely listening with an open mind, we can all help the people in our world feel supported and connected.
You don't need to be an expert to reach out - just a good friend and a great listener.
How to ask R U OK?
Do you have a feeling that someone you know or care about isn’t behaving as they normally would? Perhaps they seem out of sorts? More agitated or withdrawn? Or they’re just not themselves. Learn the signs, trust that gut instinct and act on it.
By starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up. If they say they are not OK, you can follow these 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.
Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:
1. Ask R U OK?
2. Listen
3. Encourage action
4. Check in
Make every day R U OK? Day - a conversation could change a life.
Library book list on mental health
For R U OK? Day, the amazing Bayside Library Services team have put together a book list in support of mental health.
R U OK? Day library book list
Where to receive further support
Lifeline
If you're in danger call 000
13 11 14 for 24/7 Crisis Support
Beyond Blue
1300 22 4636
24/7 for advice, referral and support from a trained mental health professional
Kids Helpline
1800 55 1800
24/7 private and confidential phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25
Headspace
1800 650 890
Support and information for young people 12-25 for mental health and what's going on in their life
Find more support services: visit R U OK? and contact Bayside City Council 9599 4444 or by email to relief@bayside.vic.gov.au
If you are in an emergency or need urgent assistance, contact emergency services on 000. If you need to speak to someone immediately, you can contact Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
