The Southern Downs Suicide Prevention Network (SDSPN) will promote an event encouraging everyone to ask “Are you OK?”on 12 September and start conversations that could save lives.
This year’s theme, “Ask R U OK? Any Day,” emphasises that life happens every day and it’s always a good time to check in on someone.
SDSPN urges people to wear yellow or decorate their businesses and workplaces in yellow to show support.
SDSPN aims to “paint the town yellow” by asking schools, organizations, and community members to wear yellow on 12 September. Whether it’s shirts, shorts, socks, hats, or hair ribbons, the goal is to support the national charity dedicated to inspiring regular, meaningful conversations to help anyone struggling with life. For businesses, this could be as simple as putting up posters and providing flyers for staff and community members.
Additionally, they hope that individuals will access resources available on the R U OK? website to educate themselves on how to have meaningful conversations.
The R U OK? Day website offers numerous ideas for event day activities, information, free downloads, and merchandise to help plan R U OK? Day activities.
SDSPN encourages participants to take photos and share them on the SDSPN Facebook page to show solidarity and support.
When asking “Are you OK?” it’s crucial to be prepared to listen to the answer with empathy, care, and without judgment. People do not need to be fixed; they need to be heard.
Statistics show that connection is the greatest component in preventing suicide.
For more information and to join the conversation, visit the SDSPN Facebook page and explore resources on the R U OK? Day website.
Come together on 12 September, to support each other and build a community that listens, cares, and helps those in need.
