Asking RUOK on RUOK Day 2022
Today is RUOK Day. Have you got a feeling that someone you know or care about it isn’t behaving as they normally would? Perhaps they seem out of sorts? More agitated or withdrawn? Or they’re just not themselves. Trust that gut instinct and act on it.
Learn more about the signs and when it’s time to ask R U OK? here.
By starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up.
If they say they are not OK, you can follow the R U OK conversation steps to show them they’re supported and help them find strategies to better manage the load. If they are OK, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask.
GETTING READY TO ASK
Before you can look out for others, you need to look out for yourself. And that’s OK. If you’re not in the right headspace or you don’t think you’re the right person to have the conversation, try to think of someone else in their support network who could talk to them.
To help you decide whether you’re ready to start a meaningful conversation, ask yourself:
- Am I in a good headspace?
- Am I willing to genuinely listen?
- Can I give as much time as needed?
AM I PREPARED?
- Do I understand that if I ask how someone’s going, the answer could be: “No, I’m not”?
- Do I understand that I can’t ‘fix’ someone’s problems?
- Do I accept that they might not be ready to talk? Or they might not want to talk to me?
- Have I chosen somewhere relatively private and comfy?
- Have I figured out a time that will be good for them to chat?
- Have I made sure I have enough time to chat properly
Head to the RUOK website for further information about how to ask RUOK.
