R U OK?

Part of the Series “News
Produced by on September 7, 2016

RUOK is a not-for-profit organisation that, since 2009, has reminded us to ask our friends and family “R U OK?”, and Thursday 8th September is R U OK day

The idea behind R U OK Day is to break down the barriers that stop people feeling connected with those around them. Many people in Australia manage mental illness everyday, and the rest of us would never even know.

The RUOK organisation, and R U OK Day, tries to help us reconnect with each other, and help those of us who are struggling to understand that we’re not alone. Sometimes, what we need is to know that we can connect with those around us, and that we don’t have to deal with everything we are feeling on our own.

There is extensive research that shows that checking in with someone can make a significant positive impact on their mental state, and R U OK works with experts in suicide prevention, governments, educators and community groups to spread the message that sometimes saving a life can be as simple as asking “R U OK?”

As part of this years R U OK Day efforts, Headspace Edinburgh North and the Northern Health Network are presenting a workshop/lecture on Thursday 8th September to help raise awareness of suicide prevention.

Guest speakers include The Black Dog Institute, Ms Stef Caminiti from the Inner Ninja Foundation, and Mr Pat Lawson from 3 Words: I Need Help, who will help us understand about mood disorders and their causes, how and when to seek help, practical strategies for offering support and strategies for building personal resilience.

It is a great opportunity to learn how to make a real and positive impact on the lives of those you are worried about.

The evening will kick off at 6:30pm at the Northern Sound System, 73 Elizabeth Way, and run until 8:30. Registration is free, just follow this link.

Whether you can attend or not, remember that September 8th is RUOK Day, and asking that simple question of someone you care about can save a life.

On September 8th, don’t forget to ask – “RUOK?”

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