How to ask R U OK? #RUOKDay

When we genuinely ask, ’R U OK?’, it can make a real impact in the workplace. We can all work together create a culture where people feel confident asking and answering this simple yet important question. You don’t need to be an expert to ask, ‘R U OK?”, you just need to care and be there.  At Endeavour Foundation, we not only believe that the mental health of our people is a priority, we also recognise CARE as one of our values, and it is ingrained in the way that we interact with each other every day.

While we know how important it is to look out for each other, we also need to look out for ourselves and ask ‘Am I OK?’. The old analogy of putting your mask on yourself before your child on the plane is a good example of why this should be a priority. It is OK if you aren’t in the right head space to start an R U OK? conversation. Be honest with the person and let them know that you are there, and happy to help them find someone who can help.

Am I ready?

• Am I in a good headspace?
• Will I genuinely listen?
• Do I have enough time if needed?

Am I prepared?

• Do I understand that when I ask someone if they are OK, the answer could be “No, I’m not”?
• Do I understand that I can be there for someone in need but I won’t be able to fix their problems?
• Do I accept that they are not ready to talk or may not want to talk to me?

Have I picked my moment?

• Have I chosen a private and comfortable space for a chat?
• Is there a certain time that is best for them to have a chat?
• Have I made sure we will have enough time to chat properly?

Once you are prepared and ready to start the conversation, you could follow these four steps:

• R U OK? Day Easy Read
• R U OK? Engage modules
• Having a Conversation guide

• Conversation flowchart poster
• Have a conversation using these four steps (If you like you can print this and put up on display at your site!)