Let’s Not Forget About Mental Health Let’s keep the conversation going
Like a solid Snap streak, let’s keep the conversation going and encourage positive mental health.
community they may have concerns about, and encouraging them to seek further help.
WORDS Michael Sabater PHOTO Michael Sabater
R U OK? encourages responsible public discussion on social isolation and it’s negative consequences such as suicide. The key message is that social connectedness and positive help seeking can assist people in crisis, and that it is the responsibility of the community to uphold said values. The key focal point is R U OK? Day, which is held once a year.
R U OK? Day is over and the colour and excitement from the event has passed – at least until next year. But that doesn’t mean the conversation has to end. Recognising people who may be struggling and encouraging proactive attitudes to managing mental health remains as important now as any day of the year. In a crowded calendar, any organisation will find it hard to get their message across. That is why most choose to focus their issue around a particular period of time, so it may stand out – even for a period as small as a day. Most thrive on this quick and loud mentality – think Jeans for Genes Day or the World’s Greatest Shave. These events come to take on a life of their own, becoming a reminder on the calendar and prompting action. The aim of the R U OK? organisation is to encourage Australians to connect with people in their
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R U OK? Day is a fantastic occasion that serves as a reminder for all of us to ask one simple question: “Are you ok?”, to a friend, a relative or even a complete stranger. In reality, suicide prevention is a complex and sensitive issue. So, wrapping it up into a short, simple, gentle, but no less powerful line makes the topic all the more palatable for us to handle. However, while it is a terrific initiative, raising awareness without prompting action is useless. Awareness is a start, but ensuring people take action is key. So, while R U OK? Day provides a much needed push, it is not a solution within itself. It’s more of a starting block for accepting the severity of mental illness and a springboard for encouraging action. Yet, every cause, no matter how big, has a humble beginning.
W’SUP