It takes four simple steps to ask someone: ‘R U OK?’
Originally posted on Deakin Life
Today, Thursday 12 September, is R U OK? Day – the national day of action reminding us all to check in with the people around us.
The simple act of having regular and meaningful conversations can make a huge difference to someone who may be struggling. Everyone can feel low at different times, and it’s such a gift to let your family, friends and peers know that you’re always here, to ask them R U OK? Any Day.
We know that it’s not easy being a uni student – and it may be that some of your friends are struggling with things like:
- adjusting to study
- managing anxiety, depression or low self-esteem
- building social networks or intimacy
- managing friendships.
Whatever the issue, feeling noticed, heard and cared for is a powerful thing – and it’s something we can all do. So, if you feel like something’s a bit ‘off’ with someone you know, or you notice a change in what they’re doing or saying, trust your instincts and take the time to ask them: ‘Are you OK?’
Where do I start?
You don’t need to have professional qualifications to have an R U OK? conversation – just listening and giving someone your time is a great place to start. Try following these four simple steps:
If you’re worried that you’re prying or that you might make things worse, or you’d like some extra tips on starting a conversation, check out these helpful R U OK Day resources for ways to prepare yourself and some useful strategies to try.
What if I think professional help is required?
Some situations may be too big or serious for you to handle alone. By listening to your friend, together you can identify the type of help they’re ready for – from self-help resources to professional help that includes medical and counselling support.
If you’re ever concerned for your safety or the safety of others, seek immediate assistance by calling Triple Zero (000).
Deakin offers a range of free services to help students with their mental health and wellbeing. We encourage you to:
- If you’re located in Australia, reach out to our experienced and qualified counsellors for free and confidential support. If you’re a GIFT City student, find out more about booking an appointment with a counsellor here. If you’re based overseas, please contact your local health practitioner for further advice and support.
- Book an appointment with a doctor at the Deakin Medical Centre.
- Visit our Ask Counselling online blog for confidential advice.
Oh, and don’t miss our campus pop-up and trivia tonight!
If you’re on campus today, look out for our Wellbeing Ambassadors in the bright yellow R U OK? Day t‑shirts. They’ll be roving around each campus between 10am–1pm on Thursday 12 September for R U OK? Day, handing out some yummy treats, as well as some R U OK? Day merch. Stop by where they’re stationed on your campus and say hi!
Plus, it’s not too late to register for our R U OK? Day online trivia at 6pm on Thursday 12 September! Run by the Deakin Wellbeing Ambassadors, we’ll test your knowledge of all things pop culture, and there’ll be some great prizes up for grabs at the end of each round too. See the registration link for terms and conditions.
Find out more via the R U OK? webpage on the Current Students webpage.