News

There’s More to Say After, “R U OK?”

Published
September 10, 2020

R U OK? Day is Australia’s national day of action dedicated to reminding everyone to ask, “Are You OK?”.

While we have all been going through a strange and unsettling time, loneliness and feeling a sense of significant isolation from loved ones can be particularly distressing for older Australians and their families.

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These uncertain times make it particularly important to connect and check in with elderly relatives, friends and neighbours.

This year’s message is, “There is More to Say After, R U OK?” reminding us all to keep the conversation going and to provide support in any way we can.

According to Beyond Blue, between 10-15% of older people experience depression and about 10% experience anxiety.

Unfortunately, older people are more hesitant to share their experiences of anxiety and depression, often ignoring symptoms and only seeking professional help at crisis point.

The good news is you can make a big difference, just by starting a conversation and picking up the phone.

R U OK? are calling on Australians to trust the signs that someone might be struggling with life or stage 4 restrictions.

When you notice these signs, trust your gut and start a conversation that could change a life.

You can learn the signs and how to ask at ruok.org.au/how-to-ask.

With these easy to read resources you will find practical information to help you ask, “Are You OK”, including simple steps to starting a conversation.

You can also access tips specifically designed to help you start a conversation with older people at beyondblue.org.au/older-people.

Your loved one might like to talk to someone that can provide confidential advice over the phone, and that’s ok. There are several resources for this, and one is the Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line.

The Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line is available Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 6pm on 1800 171 866.

If you would like to read our guide on providing care and support for a senior loved one from a distance, we have an article located here mayflower.news/SupportFromADistance

If you or someone you love are affected by depression or anxiety and need to talk, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636.

There's more to say after R U OK?

This year’s message is, “There is More to Say After, R U OK?” reminding us all to keep the conversation going and to provide support in any way we can.