Thursday, 10 September was RUOK? Day. The vision of the movement is a world where people are all connected and protected from suicide. They aim to:

• Boost our confidence to meaningfully connect and ask if someone is alright
• Nurture our sense of responsibility to regularly connect with and support others
• Strengthen our sense of belonging because we know people are there for us
• Be relevant, strong, and dynamic.

Suicide prevention is an enormously complex issue. A lack of connection (or a lack of belonging) is a factor that impacts someone who is at risk. If we take the time to ask, “Are you ok?” and listen, we can help people struggling with life feel connected long before they even think about suicide. It all comes down to regular, face-to-face, meaningful conversations about life. And asking, “Are you OK?” is a great place to start.

If you need someone to talk to, call:

• Lifelineon 13 11 14
• Kids Helplineon 1800 551 800
• MensLine Australiaon 1300 789 978
• Suicide Call Back Serviceon 1300 659 467
• Beyond Blueon 1300 22 46 36
• Headspaceon 1800 650 890
• QLifeon 1800 184 527