Did you know that you have the power right now to change a life?
This Thursday (September 8th) is R U OK? Day, our National Day of Action dedicated to reminding everyone that every day is the day to ask, “are you OK?” and support those struggling with life’s ups and downs.
R U OK? Day is such an important day because it contributes to suicide prevention efforts by encouraging people to invest more time in their personal relationships and have conversations with friends, family and colleagues if they identify signs of distress or difficulty and connect someone to appropriate support, long before they are in crisis.
There's more to say after R U OK? (15s) from R U OK? on Vimeo.
While we are hard at work building Sydney’s new airport in the lead up to welcoming our first passengers in late 2026, safety is always priority number one on site. It is understandable that physical safety may be what comes first to mind on an active construction site, but we are just as serious about the importance of good mental health and wellbeing!
With this in mind, an integral way in how we on site (and you at home) can assist anyone who may possibly be mentally impacted is by starting a simple conversation with these three words - “Are you OK?”.
The RUOK? Organisation’s foundation is based on the principle that no qualifications are needed to start a conversation and that following four simple steps could go a long way for someone who is not feeling too well.
Step 1: Ask R U OK?
You can start by asking someone if they are OK and tell them you are here to listen. Here are some questions you can ask:
• Are you OK?
• How you going?/How are things?
• What's been happening?
Step 2: Listen with an open mind
Be prepared to listen patiently and encourage them to explain what's bothering them. Take what someone is saying seriously and listen with an open mind. You can say:
• I'm worried/concerned about you.
• How are you feeling about this/that?
If you'd like to show that you are listening and understanding what the person is saying, you can say:
• It sounds like you're going through a stressful time.
• It looks like you're juggling a couple of things at the moment.
Step 3: Encourage action
Try and encourage the person to take action. You can say:
• Where do you think we can go from here?
• How can I help/support you?
• What's a good first step we can take?
Step 4: Check in
Make a time to check in with them after a couple of days or weeks. You can say:
• How've you been since we last spoke?
• I've been thinking of you and wanted to know how you've been going since we last chatted.
Stay in touch with the person and be there for them by checking on them regularly. Showing care and concern towards someone can make a difference in someone's life.
Remember to look after yourself too! It is important that you are feeling good yourself so you can support others.
We encourage anyone reading this to reach out to someone they know and ask them - “Are you OK?”
Resources
For more information on how you or someone you care about can find help please click here - Where can I get help | R U OK?
R U OK? is not a crisis support or counselling service and our website is not a substitute for professional care.
If you need professional support, please contact your doctor, local health centre or one of the services listed above.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or calling Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others, seek immediate assistance by calling Triple Zero (000).
