R U OK? Day 2024: The Power of a Simple Question

“Are you OK?” These three simple words can change someone’s life.

It’s the reason why R U OK? Day plays such an important role each year. A time where we remember the importance of looking out for another, whether you’re temporarily going through a tough time in life or are one of the approximately 8.5 million Australians who experience mental illness. 

That’s not to say that R U OK Day?, held on Thursday 12 September in 2024, is the only time we should strive to do so. It’s an issue we all should pay attention to every day. 

 

Asking Questions Makes a Huge Difference

Mental health advocates and everyday folk who experience mental health issues all agree – being asked “are you OK?” might not seem like a big deal but it goes a long way. Initiatives like R U OK? Day? are incredible because of their simplicity. Sometimes, doing your part doesn’t need to be any more complex than asking this short but important question. 

We often underestimate the power of striking up a chat, sending a text or making a phone call. It doesn’t take a lot of time and effort but it really can, and does, have an enormous impact. Some people who come across as strong and tough can be sad or struggling deeply. We never know what’s truly going on in someone else’s world. Simply asking them can do wonders for helping them open up. Avoiding the question, and not asking, can make it harder for those of us who are experiencing difficulties.

 

Let’s All Do Our Part to Improve Mental Health

We need to have more open conversations about mental health and wellbeing. So don’t be scared of asking that question. Even if you don’t see anything wrong with someone, ask. Keep asking. Sometimes paying attention and being kind to others can really change their life.

“Are you OK?” is incredibly meaningful and it’s a question we should be asking each other not only during R U OK? Day, but throughout the year.

 

Start More Conversations with an R U OK? Day Speaker 

R U OK? Day is a powerful opportunity to spread the mission of the cause in our workplaces, schools and communities. By inviting a speaker with personal or professional experiences with mental health is a great way to boost mental health awareness. 

With expert insights and guidance, we can all spark more conversations and empower everyone to build the tools to start their own potentially life saving conversations.

Browse our roster of mental health and wellness speakers here at ICMI

 

 

Jelena Dokic

A former world number 4 tennis player, popular commentator and best-selling author of her autobiography ‘Unbreakable’, and her recent release ‘Fearless’, Jelena Dokic’s story of survival on and off the court is truly remarkable.

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Tom Boyd

Tom is a beacon of courage, on and off the field. A star AFL premiership player and former number 1 AFL draft pick at the age of 18, Tom saw a higher calling that transcended football, and invested his time and effort into his own mental health and wellbeing, in turn helping others struggling with their own mental health issues.

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Dr Kerry Maberly

Cognitive and behavioural science specialist Dr Kerry Maberly is an endless resource of insights, with her expertise covering everything from strategies for resilience and self-care to better understanding our habits and the unique quirks of our brains.

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Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM

Award-winning doctor, disability advocate, and co-founder of Doctors with Disability Australia, Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM is a truly inspirational figure with an incredible story that highlights the importance of resilience, wellness, perseverance and persistence through hardship.

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Interested in booking one of our speakers? Call us now on 1800 334 625 or make an enquiry online.