A conversation, better yet, a simple question, could save a life.
Today on R U OK? Day, we’re reminded to take a moment to check in our friends, family, co-workers and everyone else around us.
In 2020, a year which has proved immensely and unexpectedly challenging, it’s more important than ever to ask one simple question.
With many putting up a strong façade or a brave face, it can be easy to assume those closest to us are doing better than they’re letting on.
“You don’t need to be an expert to reach out – just a good friend and a great listener,” the official R U OK? Day page reads.
Some of our favourite celebs are speaking up and using their voices to ask: R U OK?
We’ve rounded up some of the most poignant messages from stars, below.
If you, or someone you know, would like to have a free, confidential chat with someone they can trust, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit their website here.
For more information and advice on how to have the important conversation visit: ruok.org.au
Michael
Michael Brunelli
Married At First Sight star Michael Brunelli opened up about his own struggles, sharing a candid video from hist first day of teaching after returning from filming.
“The emotions I had been bottling up my for months hit me like a ton of bricks and I didn’t know how to handle it,” he wrote alongside the clip.
“Mentally I was trying to juggle the stress of filming, how I would be portrayed in the public eye, a new relationship and multiple negative articles online, while maintaining my professionalism and commitment to teaching.
“I filmed myself with the intention of sending it to someone for help, but never had the courage to do it.”
Now, instead, he’s shared the footage to help others find the courage they need to ask for help.
Angie
Angie Kent
Former Bachelorette and Gogglebox star Angie Kent reminded her followers to not only care for other, but also themselves.
Today
The Today Show
Karl Stefanovic and Alison Langdon were supporting the cause on this morning’s show, with a little help from matching sweet treats.
Alison
Alison Langdon
Backstage, Alison continued to spread the message, and ask R U OK?
Beau
Beau Ryan
“Today is @ruokday and I’m extremely proud to be an ambassador,” Beau wrote in a heartfelt post.
“Life is pretty hard right now for a lot of people. Everyone I know is facing some sort of hurdle or hardship. But the thing is, we are all in this together and that’s the main message to push today.
“You are not alone. The thing about mental health is sometimes you don’t know when people are struggling. It. could be right in front of you. It could be the person you least expect. Your brother, Your sister. Your Mum. Your Dad Your best mate. Mental health does not discriminate.
“Suicide is the leading cause of death in young Australians and that is frustrating because it can be preventable. Suicide does not discriminate. It could be the person closest to you.
“Now more than ever we need to connect because a conversation could save a life. I know it did for one of my best mates. Real mates talk a lot of sh*t but they also should about their feelings. Real mates open up. So check in. Be accountable. You’ll never ever regret helping someone. Peace x”
rob
Rob Mills
“A conversation could change life,” Rob reminded fans.
“Fact. As humans, we need to feel as though we are heard and that we belong. The simple act of ASKing someone RUOK? can go a really long way to showing someone you care. Be prepared to LISTEN without judgement.
“ENCOURAGE ACTION, like suggesting things that this person could do to better their mental health. A jog, a book, a podcast, or maybe suggest a mental health plan from their GP. A psych or counselor is a great way to offload feelings and thoughts to an unbiased sounding board.
“And remember there’s more to say after RUOK, so CHECK IN with them the next day, week, month.
“This world needs a big hug right now, and if we can’t do it with our bodies, the best place is with our words.
Be compassionate. Be empathetic. Be a magnificent human.”
Alison Daddo
“Such a great feeling when someone just genuinely wants to talk to you and wants to know how your life is going,” Alison shared in one post.
“One of the best gifts I can give or receive is undivided attention. Today is @ruokday Maybe there is someone in your life who needs this gift more than ever, or perhaps it’s you? ♥️” she then added in the caption.
Bridie Carter talks about R U OK? Day
Sam Mac
Sam Mac
“As of today…I’ve worn this wristband on TV everyday for an entire year 💛” Channel Seven star Sam Mac revealed.
“Initially it was to keep me in-tune for mental health conversations, but I actually found it to be a great little reminder that you never truly know what someone is going through.
Almost daily someone writes to me on socials or asks me face to face what the yellow wristband is for. I love that. It’s initiated so many meaningful conversations & that’s what it’s all about. More than ever this year, it’s so important to check in on the ppl you care about. I’m doing great, but many aren’t. There’s more to say after R U Ok?”
Home And Away cast ask R U OK?
