Support Workers know better than anyone how life’s ups and downs happen to us all. If you’ve got a feeling that a colleague or someone else you care about isn’t behaving as they normally do, you need to trust your instinct by starting a conversation.

Regular social interaction helps foster a sense of belonging, increase self-esteem and reduce feelings of isolation.

What is R U OK? Day?

11 September 2025 is national R U OK? Day, a day of action and a great chance to encourage Support Workers and others to invest more time in their personal relationships, while building the capacity of informal support networks.

R U OK? Day is the brainchild of Australian suicide prevention advocate, the late Gavin Larkin, who was quoted as saying:

“Getting connected and staying connected is the best thing anyone can do for themselves and for those who may be at risk.”

Held annually on the second Thursday of September, it is a day that reminds us of the difference a single conversation can have in someone’s life and the importance of reaching out to those who may be struggling.

However, organisers say that every day should be R U OK? Day as there is great value in demonstrating to the whole community that they can contribute to suicide prevention.

Why it matters

The Australian Institute of Health & Welfare’s National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing states that more than two in five Australians will experience a mental illness at some point in their lifetime.

In addition, the survey showed that one in five of those aged 16–85 experienced a mental disorder in the past 12 months, while 17 per cent of Australians experienced an anxiety disorder over the same period.

Breaking down walls

By implementing the R U OK? Day philosophy into the workplace, Just Better Care is helping to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.

Support Workers play a vitally important role in providing emotional and practical support to individuals experiencing numerous challenges.

Looking after yourself first

But before Support Workers can look out for others, they first need to look out for themselves, the organisers of R U OK? Day say.

To do this, Support Workers should ensure they are in a good headspace themselves and willing to listen genuinely.

Only once this has been established, should they consider approaching someone they are worried about to begin a conversation to help that family member, friend or workmate open up.

“If they say they are not okay, you can show them they’re supported and help them find strategies to manage the load better. If they are okay, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask.”

How to have the conversation

While it may feel awkward at first, R U OK? Day organisers recommend anyone attempting to look out for their colleague or family member approach the situation with an open mind.

“Don’t judge their experiences or reactions but acknowledge that things seem tough for them. If they need time to think, sit patiently with the silence. Show that you’ve listened by repeating back what you’ve heard in your own words and ask if you have understood them correctly.”

Once you have established with them how they would like to be supported and helped them find some strategies to better manage the load, give it a few days and then follow up, they say.

“Stay in touch and be there for them. Genuine care and concern can make a real difference. But remember some conversations are too big for family and friends to take on alone,” R U OK? Day organisers say.

“If someone’s been really low for more than two weeks – or is at risk – please contact a professional as soon as you can.”

Take the next step

Just Better Care recognises the importance of the R U OK? campaign to encourage open conversations and reduce social isolation.

If you want a career that will make a difference in the life of others, contact Just Better Care to find out how.