Student Wellbeing
Checking In on Family and Friends
With R U OK Day just around the corner, it is a perfect time to remind ourselves of the importance of checking in on the people we care about. While R U OK Day is a powerful opportunity to build connections and offer support, it is equally important to reach out and show we care every single day of the year.
I am worried about someone. How can I support them?
If you are concerned about someone, here are some helpful steps you can take to offer support while keeping both them, and yourself, safe:
Choose the right moment: Find a calm, quiet time where you won’t be interrupted. Creating a safe and comfortable space helps the person feel cared for and more open to talking.
Start the conversation: Beginning the discussion can feel challenging, so here are some gentle ways to get the conversation going:
“Hey, how have you been lately? What’s been going on?”
“You haven’t seemed like yourself lately. Would you like to talk?”
“I noticed you haven’t been at (insert common interest – e.g., basketball training, homework club, etc.). Is everything okay?”
If they don't feel ready to talk to you, that is okay. Encourage them to reach out to a trusted adult or someone they feel comfortable with.
Listen without fixing: Our nature instinct might be to offer solutions right away, but what’s most important is to listen openly. Show you’re listening by nodding, asking thoughtful questions, and validating their feelings.
Encourage next steps: If they are not ready to open up fully, ask if there’s anything they need help with and gently suggest talking to a trusted adult or mental health professional. There are many confidential and free resources available, such as Kid Helpline, Headspace online, and Reach Out.
Take action if it is serious: if you believe the person may be in danger or at risk, it is critical to act. Reach out to a parent, teacher, or another trusted adult immediately. In urgent situations, call emergency services on 000, or helplines (see resources linked below).
Look after yourself: Supporting someone else can be emotionally demanding. Make sure to talk to someone you trust about how you are feeling and prioritise your own self-care. If you need additional support, do not hesitate to reach out to the well-being team, or use services like those linked below.
Click on the useful resource links below:
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