R U OK DAY

Today is R U Ok day. It seems odd in an era when we are all connected more than ever that we need to be reminded to check in with our family and friends. There is something about being face-to-face with someone which makes it easier to see if a person really is okay. It also strikes me that this is only half the conversation. We can educate people on asking if someone is okay but we also have to realise that it’s okay for the answer not to be a positive one. There is no weakness in admitting that things aren’t okay.

R U OK was started by Gavin Larkin who experienced the suicide of his father in 1995. A painful journey followed and eventually saw Gavin co-create R U OK? with Janina Nearn. The tagline came about after extensive research proved that checking in with someone can make a difference.

So, I wanted to remind you all that it’s okay to admit that things aren’t good.  I certainly like to put on a positive front but I’m also not afraid to say when things aren’t good. I’m fortunate that I don’t suffer from low periods often but definitely have times when I feel strung out, frustrated or just overwhelmed with all there is to do.  When BJ was younger I felt it was a reflection of my mothering skills if I didn’t keep up a very bright and cheery front. Only a few would see the occasional cracks in the veneer when I was overtired or frustrated with a school situation.

If you are a friend of someone who lives with a disability or someone who is caring for a person with a disability you may like to read my post on how you can help . I also shared a post on ways I take care of myself for Carer’s week.

R U OK day is a fantastic reminder that we need to look up from our devices and connect with our friends and family and really notice how they are doing.

Take care and make sure you answer truthfully when asked R U OK?

R U OK image courtesy of the R U OK Facebook page.