R U OK?Day 2020
A conversation can change a life. This year has shown everyone the importance of staying connected. The message for “R U OK?Day” in 2020 is “There is more to say after R U OK?”.
It isn’t easy to keep the conversation going when someone says they are not OK. But, by knowing what to say, you can help someone feel supported and access the help they need, long before they’re in crisis.
Help make a positive impact in someone’s life.
Research has shown that approximately 2 out of 3 people are not confident they know the signs someone might be struggling. 41% of people hadn’t asked someone if they were OK because they weren’t sure they knew the signs. But! Almost 1 in 2 people believe they will have the confidence to start a conversation if they knew the signs.
Tips on how to help someone you think may be struggling:
1. Ask R U OK?
Be relaxed and friendly with your approach. Help them open up by asking questions “How are you going?” and mention specific things that have made you concerned for them.
2. Listen with an open mind
Take what they say seriously and don’t rush the conversation. Don’t judge them but acknowledge that things seem tough for them. Encourage them to explain and sit their patiently if there is silence.
3. Encourage action
Encourage them to see a health professional if they’ve been down for some time. Be positive about the role of professionals in getting them through tough times.
4. Check in
Remember to call and follow-up with them. Stay in touch and be there for them. Care and concern from someone can make a real difference.
There are plenty of resources and information on https://www.ruok.org.au/
Click on the link to learn more and see how you can help.
Beneco specialises in return to work services for employers, employees and insurance agencies. Beneco uses innovative thinking to individualise back-to-work strategies that are sustainable across a variety of different environments.
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