If you've been following our Instagram and Facebook pages, you will have seen some of the fantastic Fun Friday activities we've held around the office. These have all been courtesy of our amazing HR team.
But on Thursday, September 8, it will be R U OK? Day. It's an event all of us at Interparcel are passionate about. Together we'll be wearing yellow attire and promoting discussion around the office in the spirit of the event.
If you haven't heard of R U OK? Day or looked into it closely, here's what it's all about and why you should ask your team members this important question.
What is R U OK? Day?
R U OK? Day is a national event designed to inspire people to check in on their family, friends, and co-workers to see how they're doing. The hope is that asking someone if they're ok will encourage them to open up about issues they're dealing with and take steps to resolve them.
The event started in 2009 and is held annually on the second Thursday of September. This year it will be held on September 8. On the official website, there will be a free presentation streaming featuring special guests, conversation tips, and personal stories. There are also other resources to help have a meaningful chat with someone who needs it.
Why is R U OK? Day Important?
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported in 2020 that eight people take their lives every day. The Ripple Effect report highlighted that 89% of people had known someone who had made an attempt.
Research shows that staying connected with others benefits our general health and wellbeing. Feelings of isolation or hopelessness can contribute to mental health issues and potentially lead to suicide. It's why it's vital to have regular, meaningful conversations with loved ones.
When to Ask Someone If They're Ok
You don't have to wait until R U OK? Day to check in on family, friends, and work colleagues. The sooner you allow someone to open up to you, the faster they can take steps to get the help they need. Some signs or moments as to when you should ask someone if they're ok include:
- Relationship difficulties or breakups with a partner
- Increased levels of stress at home or in the workplace
- Financial struggles
- A significant change has happened in their personal or work life
- They have experienced the loss of a loved one or something they care deeply about
- A major health issue has been diagnosed
Tips For Having a Difficult Conversation
For many people, it can be challenging to initiate a serious conversation with a loved one. If you have noticed a behaviour change or have concerns about someone you care about, use these tips to help with your chat.
Check In on Yourself
Before you have a meaningful conversation with a loved one, you should ensure you're in the right headspace. You want to be certain you're ready to listen to their problems and have enough time to let the discussion go as long as it needs to.
Get Prepared
The most important thing to remember is that you're not expected to have all the answers or solutions to their problems. What's more important is that you're present and ready to listen. You should also be prepared that it might be difficult for the other person to open up. It could become emotional quickly.
Pick the Right Time
Make sure the other person has enough time to have a meaningful conversation. If they don't, schedule a time that works for both of you. You should also pick a location that's private but also where you'll both feel comfortable chatting.
Where to Get More Help
Thankfully, dozens of great resources are available to help you have a meaningful conversation with someone you care about. The R U OK? Day official website has plenty of guides to walk you through chats with friends, family members, and co-workers.
If you, or someone you care about, needs professional help, there are several places that can provide assistance.
Lifeline – 13 11 14
Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
MensLine Australia – 1300 789 978
Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800
1800Respect – 1800 737 732
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Linked In
YouTube