‘R U OK’ comes around again, and with the global pandemic and a whole wide world of negativity, it is as important now as it has ever been. The team here at S2M highly support this cause, the health and mental wellbeing of our colleagues, our candidates, our clients, and our friends is always front of mind.

My mother struggled with depression for many years in a time when there was a lot more of a stigma around mental health and she finally succumbed to finding an escape with alcohol. She simply gave up on life, and gave into her demons.

To feel so alone in such a big wide world is tragic, and there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t wish that I had been more understanding of her problems and needs back then. I wish I had been more educated on the signs.

There are times in our lives that will seem dark as dark can be, with no way out. Suicide is a long-term solution to a short-term problem and talking to the people that love us, opening up about our fears and problems can help us through these dark times.

Founded by Gavin Larkin in 2009, R U OK is an Australian non-profit suicide prevention organisation which aims to support those who are struggling.

This organisation fosters the need to have meaningful conversations as it can save lives.

R U OK urges everyone to use 4 insightful techniques which we can all use with people around us:

1. Ask “r u ok?”

This simple yet powerful question can help people to understand that people care about them ad love them.

2. Listen to what people have to say

You don’t have to respond or give your opinions each time, but simply listening to the person and their story can make them feel heard and important.

3. Encourage action

After you’ve heard their story, encourage them to take small steps to improve their situation. Encourage them to talk to others and seek help from professionals if needed. If they aren’t sure what to do, help them to identify the resources which they can make use of.

4. Check in with them

If you know someone is struggling with something, always check in with them and ask how it’s going for them. This shows them you’re there for them throughout their journey.

We encourage you to get involved and learn more about this amazing charity here.