Get Ready for R U Ok?
GET READY ...
R U OK? Day is happening on Thursday, 13 September.
Get ready to celebrate R U Ok? within your workplace on Thursday, 13th September 2018.
We spend up to 60% of our waking hours at work so this is the perfect place to pause and ask a simple question that could make the world of difference to someone struggling with life’s challenges.Â
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, between 2012- 2016, the average rate of suicide was 2795 deaths per year. That equates to an approx. 8 suicides per day. To think that many people feel suicide is their only option is heartbreaking.Â
To get involved it is as easy as asking just one simple question: R U OK?
We encourage all Australian workplaces to get involved in this great initiative and will be sharing some great tips and resources with you to help spread the word.Â
What is financial stress?
To celebrate R U Ok? Day, Acacia Connection is running some free webinar sessions. Learn the steps involved for navigating a conversation with someone you are worried about with confidence.
These sessions will be presented by Georgina, one of Acacia Connection’s leading psychologists. Everyone is welcome.
Staying connected and having meaningful conversations is something we can all do. You don’t need to be an expert – just a great mate and a good listener. So, if you notice someone who might be struggling – start a conversation.
The workplace represents an important connection point for all of us as we often spend a lot of our time working alongside colleagues, clients and customers. The time we spend at work highlights our need to watch out for each other by asking a simply question…R U Ok?
How do I know if someone needs support?
Over the last 2 weeks, have you noticed 2 or more of the following:
1. Changes in their physical appearance
2. Changes in mood
3. Changes in behaviour
4. Changes in thoughts
WHAT DO I DO? If you have noticed 2 or more of any of these for any team member, that person may need some extra support.
Starting a Conversation
If you notice that someone is experiencing some of the indicators above, start a conversation with them. It could make all of the difference. Here’s how…
1. Ask R U OK?
2. Listen without judgement
- Take what they say seriously.
- Don’t interrupt or rush the conversation.
- Give them space to think and sit patiently with the silence.
- Encourage them to explain.
- If they get angry or upset, stay calm and don’t take it personally.
- Avoid comments like “You’ll be fine”, “Don’t worry about it”.
- Come from a genuine place of concern for them.
3. Encourage action
4. Check in
- Remember to check in with them to see how they are going in a few days time.
- Ask if they have found any better ways or solutions to manage their concerns.
- If they haven’t done anything, don’t judge them because they may just need someone to listen to them for the moment.
- You could ask: “Do you think it would be useful if we looked into finding you some professional support (EAP)?”
- Understand it can take some people a long time to reach out for professional support.
- Try and remain optimistic of the benefits of getting help.
MENTAL HEALTH WORKSHOPS
Ensure your team have the confidence to manage situations involving mental health concerns in the workplace Mental Health Training for Leaders or Mental Health Training for Employees.
Conducted by our specialised training service provider, The Workshop Lab, this invaluable workshop provides practical tools and techniques to ensure employees know exactly what to do when dealing with mental health concerns in the workplace. Â
Duration: 3 or 4 Hours.Â
If you or someone close to you needs support, contact Acacia Connection for an appointment.
P: 1300 364 273 | Text or Live Chat: 0401 337 711 | W: acaciaconnection.com
