Trust The Signs – Ask Are You Ok?
We can all make a difference in the lives of those who might be struggling by having regular, meaningful conversations about life’s ups and downs.
If you feel like something’s not quite the same with someone you know – there’s something going on in their life or you notice a change in what they’re doing or saying – trust that gut instinct and take the time to ask them “Are you OK?”
By acting as ‘eyes and ears’ and reaching out to anyone who’s going through a tough time we can show them they’re supported and encourage them to access help sooner.
What Are They Saying?
Do they seem:
- Confused or irrational
- Moody
- Unable to switch off
- Concerned about the future
- Concerned they’re a burden
- Lonely or lacking self-esteem
- Concerned they’re trapped or in pain
What Are They Doing?
Are they:
- Experiencing mood swings
- Becoming withdrawn
- Changing their online behaviour
- Losing interest in what they used to love
- Unable to concentrate
- Less interested in their appearance and personal hygiene
- Behaving recklessly
- Changing their sleep patterns
What’s Going On In Their Life
Are they experiencing:
- Relationship issues
- Major health issues
- Work pressure or constant stress
- Financial difficulty
- Loss of someone or something they care about
Knowing The Signs Increases Conversation Confidence
R U OK?’s 2019 national omnibus survey revealed:
- Approximately two-thirds of people (63%) are not confident they know the signs that someone might be struggling with life
- 41% hadn’t asked someone if they were OK because they weren’t sure they knew the signs
- But there is hope, with nearly 1 in 2 (49%) believing they’d be more confident starting a conversation if they knew the signs
Find Help
Some conversations can be too big for friends and family. If you’re worried about someone and feel they need professional support, encourage them to connect with a trusted health professional like their doctor.
Other Supports
If you or a loved one need immediate support, Lifeline provide a listening ear and telephone crisis support 24/7 on 13 11 14.
You can find other supports and tools here.
This content was sourced from R U OK? To view more information about R U OK? click here.
