What is R U OK Day? (Conversation Tips)
How
often have someone told you, “Are you ok? Every year in September there is a
day for checking in, listening, and encouraging others to have a conversation
about their feelings. Also, it is a day to ask someone, “Are you ok? It is a
day to have a conversation about mental wellness. You can bring awareness by
wearing yellow which was chosen to symbolize friendship, positivity, and
joy.
It is also a day
for suicide prevention and to be open to listening to someone without
interrupting them. Although not everyone will be open to having a conversation
or might not understand why they are being asked the question; It is necessary
to check in with your coworkers, classmates, or anyone you see daily. Often being
asked the question might stop someone from having a conversation and might
reply with one word. However, do not pressure them if they are not ready to
have a conversation. Yet do participate in R U OK Day by making yellow paper
hearts and have each student post messages of positivity on a poster
board.
In the workplace,
you can also make a paper tree and make yellow hearts to pin on a paper tree.
Each paper heart can have a message of hope and of optimism. Another way is to
purchase items that say, R U OK? Nonetheless, have a coffee or tea day with yellow
cups and have a conversation with someone during your lunch break or work
break. Make yellow bracelets or a yellow necklace on this day and make a new
friend in your high school or college.
Encourage
everyone to participate on R U OK Day and have activities to start a
conversation. You can have a journal, a planner, or a printout page. R U OK Day
is on the second Thursday of September. This day is dedicated to having
conversations and helping someone by listening. It is a day of mental health
and suicide prevention in Australia, but anyone can participate.
Begin by asking questions and practicing active listening. Do not interrupt. Also, do not make bad comments. Concentrate on what they tell you. Give encouraging words.
Follow up with them a few days after the conversation and check in to stay connected as a friend. Additionally, it is necessary to be honest, authentic, and show your concern. Make sure you speak to them in a safe, quiet, and secluded area without anyone eavesdropping or interrupting. Also, if you have resources of support groups, offer to give them the resources for mental and physical wellness. Dedicate some time to help someone feel comfortable, relaxed, and understand their struggles or worries.
Do not rush them to end the conversation quickly. If you work in a clinic or medical office, you can wear something yellow on your work badge on this day. Nevertheless, no matter what your occupation is, you can participate in R U OK Day. Pass out yellow pencils, yellow notebooks, or yellow stationery to remind them about R U OK Day. As well as having R U OK conversations any time throughout the year. Here are resources for R U OK Day.
Plan Your R U OK? Day Activities-R U OK:
Plan your R U OK?Day activities | R U OK?
R U OK? Day 2025-Wellbeing:
Comments
Post a Comment
Thank you for your comment.