Wellbeing

A CONVERSATION CAN CHANGE A LIFE 😊

R U OK? inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with the people around them and start a conversation with those in their world who may be struggling with life.

You don't need to be an expert to reach out - just a good friend and a great listener.

Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:

Ask R U OK?
Listen
Encourage action
Check in

All of us experience ups and downs in life - there are times of joy and celebration, as well as life events or periods that are challenging, and some moments will contain a bit of both.

In these tough times, it’s the support of family, friends and colleagues that can help us through. See below for some common 'life' challenges and themes and where you can seek further help.

Relationship Breakdowns:

When a meaningful relationship ends, whether romantic, a close friendship, or a family bond, the loss can be deeply personal and painful.

If you know someone going through this, you don’t need the perfect words to help. Simply checking in, listening without judgment, and showing you care can make a real difference.

“People often forget their strengths after a breakup,” said Relationships Australia NSW counsellor Sandra Martel-Acworth.

“They may feel unsure of themselves, lose confidence, and forget what they bring to relationships and friendships. Look for moments to remind them of what you truly value about them as a friend.”

https://www.ruok.org.au/support-matters-when-relationships-end

Grief & Loss:

All of us will experience grief and/or loss at some time in our lives. It affects everyone differently and can leave people feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure of how to cope.

Some people may hesitate to talk about grief out of fear they’ll say the wrong thing. You don’t need the perfect words or solutions. Checking in regularly, being there to listen and showing you care can make a big difference. Grief looks different for everyone, and you don't need to do it alone.

https://www.ruok.org.au/chit-chat-lh-support-through-grief

Becoming a Parent:

The arrival of a child is a joyful time, but it can also deeply impact a parent’s emotional wellbeing. Preparing for the unfamiliar, adjusting to new routines and sleepless nights can be difficult both emotionally and physically.

Common struggles include increased feelings of isolation, sleep deprivation, financial pressure, changes in relationships, and a shift in priorities, all of which add to the stress of adjusting to a new life role. Around 100,000 families in Australia are impacted by perinatal anxiety and depression each year.

https://www.ruok.org.au/chit-chat-lh-new-parents

Financial Stress:

Almost half of Australians are reporting cost-of-living and personal debt distress, which can negatively impact wellbeing, increase stress and cause anxiety.

It’s normal to feel awkward starting conversations when it comes to money, however if you show genuine interest, concern and make space to listen, supportive conversations do make a positive difference when the people we care about are navigating tough times.

https://www.ruok.org.au/chit-chat-lh-financial-pressures