This Thursday 10 September is R U OK? Day, an initiative designed to empower everyday people to have meaningful conversations about mental health.
Warning: This article contains mentions of suicide.
The suicide prevention initiative acknowledges that LGBTIQA+ people are at greater risk of poor mental health and suicide, due to the prevalence of discrimination, abuse and exclusion aimed at our communities.
Every year, R U OK? encourages LGBTIQA+ folks to check in on our peers using the ALEC system: Ask R U OK?, Listen, Encourage action and Check in.
Simon Ngo, a Sydney-based yoga and Pilates teacher and R U OK? Community Ambassador, says the message is deeply personal.
“I advocate for R U OK? conversations because I’ve lost people along the way who felt they needed to carry everything on their own, and I’ve seen firsthand how effective and life-changing, or even lifesaving, these conversations can be,” Ngo said.
Simon explains that he shares his experience to help others in LGBTIQ+ communities understand that a meaningful conversation can make someone feel seen, heard and supported long before they reach the point of crisis.
“This year’s message, for me, is to simply trust your instincts. After all, we know our close friends and family members, and we can often sense when something is off,” Ngo continued.
“Think of it less as asking a question and more as having a conversation and connecting with the people in your circle.”
Lach Searle, CEO of R U OK?, emphasised the power and potential of asking that question.
“So many people want to help but sometimes they hold back because they’re not sure whether checking in with someone will really make a difference,” Searle said.
“What this research tells us is that asking, ‘are you OK?’ can absolutely have a positive impact. That simple question shows that you genuinely care and lets the other person know they don’t have to face life’s ups and downs alone.
“Our message this year is simple: ‘If you’re thinking it, Ask R U OK? Any Day’. If you think someone is struggling, trust your gut and reach out to them,” Searle added.
“A genuine conversation might help turn around someone’s day, support them through a difficult week, or be the first step towards getting through a tougher time.”
R U OK? Day is held on Thursday, 10 September. For more information, head to ruok.org.au
Do you need some support?
Support and counselling are available from:
QLife: 1800 184 527 / qlife.org.au
QLife are a counselling and referral service for LGBTQIA+ people.
DISCHARGED: info@discharged.asn.au / discharged.asn.au
Discharged is a trans-led support service with peer support groups for trans and gender diverse folks.
Lifeline: 13 11 14 / lifeline.org.au
Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636 / www.beyondblue.org.au
