R U OK? Day
Much like 2020, 2021 has been a challenging year, to say the least. Due to government-mandated lockdowns, we have all endured numerous bouts of lockdowns which can take a significant toll on our mental health.
This year, R U OK? Day is being held in Australia and New Zealand on Thursday the 9th of September. It is a National Day of Action dedicated to reminding everyone that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?” and support those struggling with life’s ups and downs.
At our Venue, we believe there’s no health without mental health. Mental health issues are very common and are the number one reason for Australians to visit their GP.
Physical activity has a critical role to play in preventing the onset of mental health illness and its treatment. According to various studies and industry mental health bodies, regular physical activity has been found to help regulate mental health and improve your mood (Beyond Blue, 2019). In addition, regular exercise can also increase your energy levels, improve your sleep patterns, improve work productivity, improve your outlook on life, clear your mind after a tough day and create better coping mechanisms to deal with everyday stress and anxiety.
We know times are tough, especially with our venue constantly being closed – but now more than ever is it important to prioritise getting out and getting active.
R U OK? Day presents the opportunity to ask those around you how they are doing, and being available to provide assistance where possible. If you are worried about someone and aren't sure how to ask, then use these four steps to start a conversation that could change a life:
Reaching out for support
Family and friends can also call upon these services for advice and assistance on how to support someone who is struggling with life.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, please seek assistance by contacting your trusted healthcare professional or calling Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are concerned for your safety or the safety of others, seek immediate assistance by calling Triple Zero (000).
Australia
Lifeline (24/7 )
13 11 14
lifeline.org.au
Beyond Blue (24/7)
1300 224 636
beyondblue.org.au
SANE Australia
1800 18 SANE (7263)
sane.org
Suicide Call Back
Service (24/7)
1300 659 467
suicidecallbackservice.org.au
Kids Helpline (24/7)
1800 551 800
kidshelp.com.au
More contacts
ruok.org.au/findhelp
New Zealand
Healthline (24/7)
0800 611 116
health.govt.nz
Lifeline
0800 543 354
www.lifeline.org.nz/
Samaritans
0800 726 666
samaritans.org.nz/
Free Mental Health E-Learning Program – MHelp
MHeLP is a cutting edge Mental Health eLearning Program developed under the guidance of international mental health and exercise experts.
Designed for the New Zealand and Australian leisure and community support sectors to equip our employees, volunteers, and members with strategies to support themselves and others mental health.
It is completely free, self-paced and earns learners two continuing education credits (CECs). We encourage your participation and ask you to promote participation with others.
