Tomorrow, 9 September, is R U OK Day? 2021 with the message this year being Are they really OK? Ask them today.
Organisers are encouraging people to examine how the people in our world are really going.
“Life's ups and downs happen to all of us. So chances are someone you know might be struggling. Your genuine support can make a difference whatever they are facing, big or small,” the organsiers say.
“So, don’t wait until someone’s visibly distressed or in crisis. Make a moment meaningful and ask them how they’re really going.”
R U OK? Day is a national day of action dedicated to encouraging people to ask the question and to remember every day to support people who may be struggling with life’s ups and downs.
The R U OK? organisation is a harm prevention charity that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times in their lives.
Its work focuses on building the motivation, confidence and skills of the help-giver – the person who can have a meaningful conversation with someone who is struggling with life.
Pharmacists can be the first point of contact a troubled perron has with a health professional.
Many community pharmacists have completed a special course in mental health first aid and as the most accessible health professionals they ideally placed to provide advice or counselling.
The accessibility of community pharmacies is an important factor for people experiencing mental health issues.
Being able to walk in off the street and speak to a health professional who understands the issues and who can provide counselling is very important.
Pharmacists also can recognise potential early signs or symptoms of depression, anxiety or other mental health disorders in the community pharmacy setting.
Go to the R U OK? Day site for more information.
