New research has revealed a confidence gap when it comes to having meaningful R U OK? conversations.
Three in four Australians believe it’s important to regularly ask someone if they’re OK, a third might hesitate – even when they sense someone might be struggling.
This hesitation often stems from concerns they might say the wrong thing, invade someone’s privacy, or not know how to help.
Psychologist, suicidologist, and R U OK? board member Annie Fardell Hartley says the data tells a different story, with an overwhelming majority of people surveyed (88 per cent) feeling grateful and supported when someone asked if they were OK.
“These conversations matter and they’re often more welcome than we think,” Ms Fardell Hartley said.
“People don’t expect you to have all the answers or the perfect words. They value trust, genuine care, and someone who really listens.”
Three quarters of Australians are currently experiencing elevated distress, and as people plan activities to mark R U OK?Day on Thursday 11 September, the importance of reaching out has never been clearer.
R U OK? is helping Australians bridge the confidence gap and Ask R U OK? Any Day because regular, meaningful conversations can – and do – change lives.
“R U OK?Day, our National Day of Action, is a powerful reminder, but it’s what we do regularly that truly makes a difference,” said Katherine Newton, chief executive of R U OK?
“We want Australians to feel confident to check in with the people they care about – not only on R U OK?Day, but any day.
“Our research shows those who regularly have R U OK? conversations are significantly more likely to report increased feelings of wellbeing.”
Ms Newton noted a third of Australians say they’ve been checking in with others more often over the past year — a sign that more people are actively stepping up to support those around them.
For 19-year-old R U OK? community ambassador Mahir Munot, the message is deeply personal.
“I’ll never forget the day a teacher asked me ‘are you OK?’. I’d been in tears, feeling alone, and I was carrying more than I could handle,” Mr Munot said.
“That one question gave me the confidence to speak up for the first time, and it changed everything. I found my voice, and through it, I found strength.
“That’s why I believe we must Ask R U OK? any day. Because you never know when someone is silently struggling, and your words have the power to change their life.”
Mr Munot’s experience underlines how a single question can be the turning point and that we all have the power to make a difference.
Ms Newton says for those who might be unsure what to say, R U OK? is there to help.
“You don’t need to be an expert to ask someone if they’re OK, and you don’t have to do it alone. It’s natural to feel nervous, but that’s why R U OK? is here,” she said.
“Our resources are free, simple, and designed to help you feel more confident to check in with someone you care about. You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back.”
Research has found people who engage with R U OK? are six times more likely to ask someone what’s troubling them, listen with empathy, and encourage them to seek support.
They’re also more likely to check in regularly with the people they care about.
Visit ruok.org.au to access free tools, tips and resources to help you ask, listen and support someone who might be struggling.
Because a conversation could change a life, any day of the year.
Lifeline offers free and confidential crisis support, available 24/7. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online at lifeline.org.au
MensLine Australia offers a free 24/7 telephone and online support for men with emotional health and relationship concerns. Call 1300 78 99 78 or visit mensline.org.au
13YARN offers a free, 24/7 crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Call 13 92 76 or visit 13yarn.org.au
