Student Wellbeing News

With Sue Hone

In 1995, much-loved family man Barry Larkin was far from OK. His unexpected suicide left family and friends in the depths of their grief and with endless questions. In 2009, his son Gavin Larkin worked for an advertising agency which were involved in public health campaigns and Gavin chose to promote just one question to honour his father and to try and protect other families from the pain his had endured. Encouraging each and every one to ask those around them; “Are you OK?” in the hope that people who are at their most vulnerable or feel isolated are reassured that they are not on their own; addressing social isolation and promoting community cohesiveness. Using his creative genius Gavin created the slogan in is more common form and “R U OK?” was born.

In a cruel twist of fate Gavin sadly passed away from lymphoma in 2011, but his family have continued to promote the campaign by having a national acknowledgement day, and it has grown into one of the most successful national health campaigns in Australian history. Celebrated annually on the second Thursday of September, social activities , morning teas and conversations are held across different groups within all communities, schools and workplaces promoting the question and educating everyone regarding the 4 steps of an R U OK conversation (ask, listen, encourage action and check in) and following this up with ensuring everyone is aware of the range of supports that are available for support. The important thing to know is that no one is every alone, there is help available and each and every one matters.

People are asked to wear yellow to remind them of the importance of asking "R U OK?" with yellow symbolizing optimism, joy, happiness and friendship.

This week students and staff joined the celebrations here at MCC. Year 11 students participated in a workshop with

headspace Griffth where they not only looked at the 4 steps but familiarised themselves with a wide range of supports both within the MCC and the wider community, but also via electronic apps and online sites that provide support 24/7. The workshop concluded with a range of games and activities that lifted the spirits and provided some light heighted entertainment for all prior to the students commencing their preliminary exams next week.

During the lunch break the celebrations and festivities continued with members of the wellbeing committee hosting a cake/ bake stall and the opportunity to take part in a “Just Dance” competition in the hall.

A great time was had by all, and funds raised from the stall will be donated to headspace Griffith so they can continue their engagement programs with more young people within the community. The committee are looking forward to a joint initiative in term 4 with both headspace Griffith and Murrumbidgee PHN.

RANDOM PHOTOS

This week’s activity follows on from the afternoon tea hosted by the committee last week which was a sign of appreciation and gratitude to all members of the MCC staff community. The feedback from the staff was extremely positive and many have expressed that the personalised letter they received written by committee members was such a positive gesture and well received at the end of a busy term. The committee learnt that even the smallest act of kindness can have such a huge impact on the wellbeing of others and make a significant difference.