Are You Okay Day is an annual observation in Australia, celebrated on the second Thursday of every September. This year, it falls on September 12. On this day, Australians check up on each other, especially those who are going through a tough time. Since we keep too busy all year round, it is great that days like Are You Okay Day are observed to make us and those around us seen, heard, and understood. The day also addresses the crisis of social isolation and community cohesiveness. With a focus on the prevention of suicides and counseling, Are You Okay Day saves lives. -National Today
In 1995, the much-loved Barry Larkin was far from OK. His suicide left family and friends in deep grief and with endless questions.
In 2009, his son Gavin Larkin chose to champion just one question to honor his father and to try and protect other families from the pain his endured: 'Are you OK?'.
While collaborating with Janina Nearn on a documentary to raise awareness, the team quickly realized the documentary alone wouldn’t be enough.
To genuinely change behavior Australia-wide, a national campaign was needed. From this realization, and with Gavin and Janina’s expertise and passion, R U OK? was born.
Gavin remained a passionate champion of the fact a conversation could change a life, even as cancer ended his in 2011. His legacy is a national Conversation Movement that is equipping Australians with the skills and confidence to support those struggling with life.
R U OK? was born from lived experience. The valuable insights, storytelling, and expertise of those with lived experience continue to be weaved throughout everything we do. Across our team, Board, Advisory Groups, and Ambassadors, we remain respectful and proud of those who share their journeys to help continually improve our work. -RUOK
“Social isolation and loneliness each independently have more than a 25% increased risk for significant health issues and not just mental health issues like anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation, but other diseases, particularly heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and dementia,” Dr. DeLong said. “It’s a major public health issue that’s been very much underappreciated.”
In fact, “studies have shown that social isolation was associated with about a 50% increased risk of developing dementia,” Dr. Clark said. “Furthermore, having poor social relationships was associated with a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% risk of stroke.”
“We know that it can also affect a person’s immune system resulting in an increased susceptibility to various infections,” he said. “Additionally, social isolation is associated with an increased risk of developing obesity, high blood pressure, and premature death.” -American Medical Association
Those with social anxiety disorder are at increased risk for depression, alcohol abuse, and suicide attempts — even more so than people who have other anxiety disorders. They may avoid any situation in which they fear their intense feelings of anxiety and fear will arise. The disorder can disrupt family life, reduce self-esteem, and limit work efficiency.
People may have few or no social or romantic relationships, making them feel powerless, alone, or even ashamed. And they’re terrified that they will be negatively evaluated by others or that they will embarrass or humiliate themselves. For some, it can be economically devastating because they have difficulty completing school, interviewing and getting a job, and building professional relationships. -Anxiety and Depression Association of America
Do you have a feeling that someone you know or care about isn’t behaving as they normally would? Perhaps they seem out of sorts? More agitated or withdrawn? Or they’re just not themselves. Trust that gut instinct and act on it. Learn more about the signs and when it's time to ask R U OK? HERE.
By starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed, you could help that family member, friend, or workmate open up. If they say they are not OK, you can follow our conversation steps to show them they’re supported and help them find strategies to better manage the load. If they are OK, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask.
CLICK HERE to get the proper resources to help those around you. The link can also help with how to start the conversation and prep yourself for some deep and heavy conversations. Try THIS LINK to look at resources for everyday helping such as in your workplace, school, LGBTQ+ community, and more. Ask "Are you okay?" any day, SIGN UP for videos, posters, conversation guides, planners, and more any day.
