R U OK? Day is an annual day in September (today, 12/9) dedicated to remind people to ask family, friends and colleagues the question, "R U OK?", in a meaningful way, because connecting regularly and meaningfully is one thing everyone can do to make a difference and even save lives.
We do this every year and it's good to see R U OK? Day doing events all year round and not just September 12. So have these conversations today, next week, next month and throughout the year.
Hot Tip: Medicare provides for 10 free (or subsidised) sessions with a psychologist after a referral from a GP. It's free/cheap so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Most mental health issues are very much treatable with professional help. Trouble is that most of us are too scared, embarrassed, or lack self awareness to seek professional help. If you have a broken foot, most people will have no hesitation in seeking a doctor because we know it can be fixed but for mental health issues (which can be just as well treated) we quietly carry on even though the pain and harm may be 1000 times worse. (credit: Bluberry)
The comments and PMs we received last year are part of why we are proud to support R U OK? Day by changing our colours and promoting their cause.
One of the biggest challenges to OzBargain and other online social media sites (e.g. Instagram, Twitter) is promoting an environment where everyone feels comfortable commenting and discussing issues (or deals). We should all recognise that our comments have consequences both positive and negative. People don't participate on a discussion site to be attacked or bullied. While some people may say 'suck it up' and that people should not be so sensitive, we should be aware that we don't truly know the people behind these accounts. Some are young, some may come to here to escape a tough reality, be mentally unbalanced, or they possibly could have thick skin. We just don't know.
On the flip side, a simple gesture such as thanking someone or sending a friendly PM can go a long way. We made a post about contributing to a more positive OzBargain environment and we've had some great results changing some users behaviour by thinking about the impacts of their words.
Over the years of running this initiative on OzBargain (and offline) we've also received some comments making jokes about RUOK? Day. While those people may be OK, many times they are not both in real life and on OzBargain. Keep asking, be meaningful in the way you have your conversation and don't ask just today but any day.
We have forums where you can discuss relationships or anything else off-topic. Also, if you see any comments where you think the person may be struggling, please report to us and we'll get in touch.
You can also feel free to chat with us in the private Talk with a Moderator forum if you have any OzBargain related issues. Or send me a PM about whatever you want (except moderation issues). Please see our Mental Health Page if you need to speak to someone including live chat.
For confidential advice and support call a crisis support line – such as Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
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What are the signs?
What they might say:
- Things that sound more confused or irrational
- Things that indicate a persistent drop in mood
- Complain they have difficulty switching off
- They are struggling to see a future
- They believe they’re a burden on others
- They feel worthless or alone
- They feel trapped or unbearable pain
- Talk about death, suicide and wanting to die
What they might do:
- Change their mood or experience extreme mood swings
- Withdraw or avoid friends, family or social situations
- Change their online behaviour
- Not enjoy hobbies or interests they once did
- Have difficulty concentrating
- Lose interest in maintaining personal hygiene or appearance
- Behave recklessly, including increasing alcohol or drug use
- Change their sleep pattern
What's going on in their life:
- Relationship breakdown
- Major health issues
- Work or home stress
- Financial difficulty
- Study pressures
- Loss of someone or something they care about
Neil, Scotty & ozb team - are you okay?