Monday, September 12, 2011

R U OK?Day '11




"A conversation could change a life."

There are 6.94 billion people on Earth. It's unlikely you'd be able to go an entire day without meeting anyone. Yet, the feeling of loneliness can kick in even when you're surrounded by people.

On Thursday, the 15th of September, I invite you to join me in asking family, friends and colleagues: "Are you OK?"

R U OK?Day is an Australian day of action. The objective? To prevent suicide by encouraging Australians to connect with someone they care about and, by extension, help stop little problems from turning into bigger ones.

But don't let the fact that it's just an Australian day dissuade you from connecting with those you know and love. I believe everyone, from around the world, all backgrounds and walks of life, should take a moment and spend some time with the people you care about.

After all, staying connected is key to promoting our general health and well-being. Feelings of isolation and hopelessness can play a part in the development of depression and other mental health issues, which can ultimately result in suicide. Consistent and meaningful conversations can protect those we know and love.

As Gavin Larkin, Founder R U OK?, says:

In the time it takes to have your coffee, you can start a conversation that could change a life. On R U OK?Day, who will you ask?

It's that simple.



For details, and even tips on how to start an R U OK? conversation, click here (www.ruokday.com.au/)



@bernardsam on Twitter:





The RMIT Foundation Graduation Lunch
September 2010 Intake
15.09.2011




No comments:

Post a Comment