R U OK? Day is an important occasion that encourages meaningful conversations about mental health and well-being in our day-to-day life.
Every year in Australia, we celebrate R U OK? Day on the second Thursday of September. In 2024, the day lands on September 12th.
It is an opportunity for everyone to check in on colleagues, (let's also include family members and friends in the mix), and create a supportive environment. Celebrating this day not only helps to foster a healthy workplace culture but also reminds us of the importance of asking, “Are you ok?”
Quick history lesson on the origin of R U OK? Day
The day originated in Australia, to raise awareness, encouraging people to have open conversations and provide support/education around Mental Health.
It was founded in 2009 by Gavin Larkin in honor of his father, who faced life’s challenges. What began as a personal mission has grown into a national event, prompting Australians to ask, “Are you OK?” and connect with those who might be struggling.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), between 16 March 2020 and 25 April 2021, over 15.0 million Medicare Benefit Schedule-subsidised mental health-related services were processed.
This day highlights the importance of checking in with others, which has become a key part of promoting mental health awareness, especially in workplaces across the country.
6 ideas to celebrate R U OK? Day at workplace, on a shoestring budget.
Celebrating R U OK? Day doesn't have to break the bank.
1. Organise a social event
Get a Sponsor or a Benefits Partner to sponsor a morning tea, breakfast, or BBQ event. Most Partners would jump at the opportunity to foster a closer relationship with HR and employees. These kinds of social events give everyone a chance to relax and chat. Encourage people to practice asking each other, "Are you OK?" during the event. It's a great way to start meaningful conversations in a friendly atmosphere.
2. Provide resources and training
This can include workshops on stress management or recognising signs of mental health issues. The R U OK? Day website (ruok.org.au) and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre (sydney.edu.au/brain-mind) offer great resources for getting started. Here are 2 resources by R U OK Website to plan training at your workplace:
Posters and Presentations to participate in R U OK? Day
Free online course to learn how to ask R U OK? for the workplace
3. Partner with experts
Reach out to your existing partners like your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider, Superannuation Educator, or Corporate Health Plan provider. Ask them to share content relating to mental health and well-being. They might offer free webinars, informative pamphlets, or online resources that can benefit your team.
4. Conduct a wellbeing survey
Create a simple survey to understand how your employees are feeling. Ask questions like "How would you rate your work-life balance?" or "Do you feel supported by your colleagues?" This helps you identify areas where your team might need more support. Tools like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms can be used to create and distribute the survey easily.
Here’s an example of Survey Questions shared by WebMD. I especially love their “Social Connections and Inclusions” section aimed at understanding whether the employees are getting enough support from their community.
5. Lead by example
Encourage senior leaders to create a short video message about why R U OK? Day is important to them. This shows that mental health matters at all levels of the organisation. Leaders could share personal experiences or explain how they prioritise their own mental health. These videos can be shared on your company's website or via email.
Here’s an example of how you can share a short message about the importance of R U OK? Day by Acting Chief Executive of eHealth NSW, Prof Amith Shetty.
6. Establish a Mentor Program
Start a program where experienced employees can guide and support other team members. This could be a peer-to-peer, or senior to junior dynamic. This creates a support network within your organisation and fosters a more nurturing and empathetic social environment/workplace. Benefits include improved job satisfaction, better skill development, and a stronger sense of belonging. The Australian HR Institute (ahri.com.au) offers resources on how to set up an effective mentoring program.
The above are simply ideas for starting a conversation with your peers. They are not exclusive to Human Resource Managers. The most important thing is to create an environment where people feel comfortable talking about their mental health and supporting each other.
How to ask R U OK? at the workplace
If you’re unsure about how to start an “Are you ok?” conversation, the below image, from “R U OK” website, provides a helpful guide on how to start and keep the conversation going to help someone in need.
This approach can help initiate and conduct a meaningful conversation about someone's well-being.
Promote these organisations that offer 24-hour support:
Lifeline via text, online chat, or by calling 13 11 14
Call 13YARN (13 92 76)
Mental Health Line (NSW) 1800 011 511
Suicide callback service via online chat, video, or by calling 1300 659 467
Full Stop Australia 1800 385 578
Need more info?
Looking for more information about R U OK? Day?
For more resources on how to best support your staff please check out the R U OK Day website.
Conclusion
R U OK? Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it's a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and support in our lives, especially in the workplace. By implementing some or all of the creative ideas we've discussed, you can create a more supportive, open, and mentally healthy work environment.
Remember, the conversation doesn't stop when R U OK? Day ends. These strategies and conversations should be ongoing, and woven into the fabric of your organisation's culture. Every day is an opportunity to check in with your colleagues, offer support, and foster a workplace where everyone feels valued and heard.
As we approach R U OK? Day 2024, let's commit to making mental health a priority. Whether it's through organising events, providing resources, or simply being there to listen, each of us has the power to make a difference. By asking "Are you OK?" and really listening to the answer, we can create stronger, more resilient workplaces and communities.
Let's make every day an R U OK? Day!