Are they really OK?
Everyone has a role to play in ensuring the people in their world feel connected and supported
R U OK? has launched ‘Are they really OK? Ask them today’, encouraging everyone to think about how the people in their communities and families are really going.
This extended lockdown has not been easy for any of us and no one is immune to life’s challenges even without a pandemic, whether that’s a relationship breakdown, not seeing family and friends, work pressure, school pressure or, sadly for some, the loss of a loved one.
During these times especially, it is not obvious when people are having a hard time, but we know that when we ask early and in a genuine way, we can help someone who might be struggling to feel connected, supported and loved, long before they are in crisis.
Although R U OK? Day is on September 9th this year, R U OK? conversations is not only for this day. These conversations are also not only for when someone is visibly distressed or in crisis. An R U OK? check in can make a difference for anyone who is struggling.
For youth leaders and workers, remember to check in with your young people and see if they are really okay. Life is hard enough as a young person transitioning and growing from year to year, let alone doing it during a pandemic.
Don’t forget to check in with yourselves too! It is important that you also have someone to talk to and support you to make sure you are really okay!
R U OK? will be releasing a range of free resources in the build-up to R U OK? Day, including tips and tools to help Australians know when and how to have an R U OK? conversation.
For support at any time of day or night, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Remember you can keep in touch with PULSE by signing up for our monthly newsletter, or for further information contact our team via email, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok.
Ofa Foiakau is the Field Officer (Central/West), and Youth/High School ministry leader as a part of the PULSE team.
