Ask R U OK? Any day

R U OK? Day 2024 on Thursday 12 September is a day that reminds us that we don't need to be an expert to reach out and ask someone if they are OK. This year's theme is Ask R U OK? Any day, highlighting the importance of building trust and normalising conversations around mental health and wellbeing by checking in regularly with friends, family, or colleagues.

Checking in regularly lets the people in your life know that you're someone they can talk to when times are tough. We all have what it takes to ask, listen and support one another. But checking in with others, even a close friend, can sometimes feel like a daunting task.

The R U OK? mission is to equip everyone with the resources and confidence to navigate a conversation with someone who might be struggling. Those who are exposed to the R U OK? Day campaign are up to six times more likely to reach out to someone who might need to be asked 'are you OK', compared to those not exposed to the campaign.

Genuinely listening with an open mind makes a difference in helping people feel connected and supported. To raise awareness for identifying when someone might be struggling and how we can step in to support each other, R U OK? has developed four simple steps for starting a conversation that could change a life: 

1. Ask, "R U OK?"
2. Listen
3. Encourage action
4. Check in

R U OK? Day events

• On breaks from work or study
• When exercising together
• When connecting or doing activities together online
• When you’re spending time together socially
• When you’re doing an activity side-by-side
• When you’re sharing a meal
• When you’re travelling together, even a short trip can be a good time to talk.

Visit the R U OK? website to learn more about the signs that indicate it may be time to ask someone if they are OK, and for tips and strategies on how to start a conversation and encourage action.

Your safety and wellbeing is our highest priority and we offer a range of wellbeing and mental health services. If you need immediate crisis or emotional support you can contact the support line by calling 1300 474 065 or by texting 0488 884 429 outside of office hours (5 pm to 9 am weekdays, 24/7 weekends and public holidays). 24-hour support is also available from the following community resources:

• Lifeline via text, online chat, or by calling 13 11 14 
• 13YARN, by calling 13 92 76
• Mental Health Line (NSW) by calling  1800 011 511
• Suicide callback service via online chat, video or by calling 1300 659 467 
• Full Stop Australia by calling 1800 385 578