R U OK Day
R U OK day is a time in the year during which we aim to make time and opportunity to check up on ourselves and our peers. We wish to address the stigma around mental health and encourage open communication if a person is struggling. It is through opening up to each other that we can prevent mental health struggles from bottling up and developing over time.
The idea behind this movement is essentially for students to check up on each other, whilst you do not have to say, “Are you ok,” the general concept behind the phrase is what we aim to convey, so you can check in on your peers and classmates in a manner that feels more appropriate for you.
Understandably, the large majority of people, even those struggling with their mental health, will respond claiming that they are doing fine. We will often have to accept their answers in these cases, and we sincerely hope that anyone in this position would reach a place where they are comfortable to share.
However, in the case that someone is NOT ok, there are a few basic things you can do to respond to that:
- Listen: Try to let them open up and be a receptive listener, free of judgement
- Encourage action: Be supportive and encourage them to seek help if needed
- Check in: Ensure that you check up on them every once in a while
It is important to remember that the large majority of us are not qualified to deal with serious mental health struggles. If someone opens up to you, ensure that you do not take on their burden. The wisest course of action is to support them and encourage them to seek help from a professional.
You can call a crisis support service like Lifeline on 13 11 14 for immediate support and advice. If you believe someone’s life is in danger, call 000.
For more information, check out: https://www.ruok.org.au/findhelp
We sincerely hope that this movement and this day would remind people that mental health is a real issue, and it is one that must be addressed in everybody’s lives. So if you notice someone not doing too well, or if you are going through something, don’t hesitate to act. Take a step and have faith that only good can come from it.
God Bless.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
-Isaiah 41:10
Dylan
Chaplaincy Captain