Ask R U OK? Any Day

1 in 2 Australians have experienced a mental health condition in their lifetime.

Life serves up challenges that can sometimes make us feel overwhelmed, unsure, or unsettled. When that happens it’s comforting to know there is someone we can talk to who can share the load and help us through.

In the Australian electrical industry, where long hours, demanding schedules, and high safety responsibilities are part of the job, mental wellbeing is just as important as physical safety. Supporting our mates on site or in the workshop can make all the difference.

The people in your world won’t always tell you if something’s troubling them, so it’s important for you to consider what’s going on in their lives and be on the lookout for any changes in the way they behave.

• • Are they having relationship difficulties?
  • Are they experiencing increased levels of stress or constant stress?
  • Are they in financial trouble?
  • Have there been major changes at work or home?
  • Have they experienced the loss of someone or something they care about?
  • Do they have health concerns?

These are tough circumstances for anyone to manage on their own but by asking, ‘are you OK?’ and having a meaningful conversation you can help those you care about through life’s ups and downs.

Having meaningful conversations with family, friends and colleagues can help them feel connected and supported through life’s ups and downs.

We encourage you to use these 4 steps as a guide to having a meaningful R U OKY? Conversation.

1. 1. Ask R U OK?
   2. Listen
   3. Encourage Action
   4. Check in

Because just like checking your tools and safety gear, checking in on your mates’ wellbeing is part of looking out for each other.

You can find more conversation guidance at ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

If you would like to download a free pack for your workplace, click here at https://www.ruok.org.au/work