What is R U OK? Day?

R U OK? is a campaign that aims to inspire and empower everyone to connect with the people around them and support anyone struggling with life.

By starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up.

This year's theme is no qualifications needed. While we are fortunate to have many experts and services available at Murdoch, this theme is a strong reminder that we don’t need to be experts to have an R U OK conversation.

What's happening on campus?

• MU Guild free mental health services and resources (and a free cookie!)
• R U OK? Help a friend with their mental health
• Play me! I’m yours! At the Vet Pavillion
• Looking for something to add to the calendar each week? The Den is a safe space to learn more about health and wellness. Join them every Wednesday (in the Library) and Thursday (in the Winder Garden) from 11am-2pm for free activities and more! 

• For more ways to get involved, keep an eye out for Murdoch University’s activities for Mental Health Week 8-15 October.

How can I check on a friend?

Follow the steps: Ask, Listen, Encourage action, Check-in. A good time to start a conversation might be:

• On breaks from work or study
• When exercising together
• When connecting or doing activities together online
• When you’re spending time together socially
• When you’re doing an activity side-by-side
• When you’re sharing a meal
• When you’re travelling together

If you are unsure how to approach a friend you are concerned about, the R U OK? website provides help and guidance to help you start the conversation. Here are some tips:

• Be relaxed, friendly and concerned in your approach. 
• Ask R U OK? Help them open up by asking questions like "How are you going?" or "What’s been happening?"
• Listen with an open mind and don't interrupt or rush the conversation.
• Encourage action by asking questions like “What’s something you can do for yourself right now? Something that’s enjoyable or relaxing?”
• Stay in touch and be there for them.

RUOK is a day for everyone

Learn the Key Word Signs to ask ‘R U OK?’ so that you can talk to people who use Key Word Sign to communicate.

What do I say/do if someone is not OK?

What if someone says “no”? What should you say or do? Here are some tips on how to respond and support someone who is not okay, or take a look at the Beyond Blue Website for more.

• Ask if they want to talk about it and try saying “I know sometimes it can be hard to talk about, but I’m here for you”
• Don’t problem solve for them but really listen to what they have to say. Nodding along and giving non-verbal cues you’re listening can be really helpful here. Or you could ask questions like “what can I do to help you?” or “what do you need right now?”
• Know your support options – if someone isn’t going ok, sometimes they don’t know where to turn for support - you can help by knowing what’s around

What if I’m struggling myself?

• Students can access the Murdoch University Counselling Service for a wide range of personal, psychological and study-related issues. The team of experienced counsellors is dedicated to student wellbeing and the service is free and confidential for all enrolled students. There are a heap of resources available on their web page. If students need one on one help they can make an appointment. We offer up to six sessions per calendar year.
• Beyond Blue: 24-hour telephone and online forums You can call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 at any time, or connect with others on-line in a safe and anonymous environment.
• Anyone needing immediate crisis or emotional support, can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 at any time, or text between 6pm-midnight (AEDT) on 0477 131 114.
• The Health and Wellbeing page also has useful information and resources.

Ask them today! Your conversation could change a life.