No one could have predicted what 2020 would hold for all of us, as a university and on a global level. It has been a difficult and stressful year to say the least
Through taking action to keep ourselves and others safe from the spread of COVID-19, we have been met with unprecedented levels of stress, uncertainty and loneliness as a consequence.
Dealing with ongoing stress and ambiguity has a big impact on how we think and feel about ourselves and how we cope with the day to day challenges we face. As a result, many people are more vulnerable at this point.
It’s okay not to be okay. It’s okay not to be coping. It’s okay to be grieving as restrictions continue to impact our lives. We have had less opportunity to exercise, socialise, study on campus, and fewer chances to connect with friends, family, fellow students, and work colleagues.
2020 continues to present us with challenges. That is why it is important to check in with others. R U Ok? Day is coming up again this year on Thursday, 10 September.
Keep reading to find out about R U Ok? Day and read advice from our Student Counselling and Wellbeing team.
Is there someone in your life who is struggling at the moment? Is someone acting differently? Who haven’t you heard from in some time?
The important question to ask is…
R U Ok?
We can all play a part by asking the question “R U Ok?”
R U OK? Day is the national day of action to empower people to connect in supportive ways. People often don’t seek help because they think it won’t make a difference or are fearful or ashamed to ask for support.
Help reduce this stigma about mental health issues by reaching out and asking the question “R U Ok?”
Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:
- Ask “R U Ok?”
- Actively listen with an open mind.
- Encourage the next step by asking questions such as,
- “How would you like me to support you?”
- “What have you done in the past to manage similar situations?”
- Make time to follow-up via text, phone call or in-person to see how they have been going.
Life doesn’t wait for the perfect timing. Ask that person right now “R U Ok? I’m here to listen because I care.”
If you’re looking for more ways to start the conversation or for resources for what to do when someone says they’re not okay, visit www.ruok.org.au.
Remember to look after yourself too. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
If you need support or are concerned about someone in your life and want to talk to someone, reach out to CQUni’s Student Counselling and Wellbeing team.
Student Counselling and Wellbeing a free and confidential service for students.
E: [email protected]
P: 07 4930 9456 (Monday to Friday, 8.30am - 4pm AEST)
W: www.cqu.edu.au/counselling
External Support Services:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14 or SMS service 6 pm and Midnight 0477 13 11 14
- Suicide Call-back Service on 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636
- 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732
- MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
- Headspace (for young people 12-25) on 1800 650 890
- QLife on 1800 184 527 (3 pm to midnight)
- Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277
Check out what events are happening on at your local CQUni Campus on 10 September by visiting your campus Facebook Groups or visiting your reception.
Don’t have a local campus or want to get involved with R U Ok? Day in other ways. Be part of our R U OK Day video. We want to share the real ways people ask if others are okay. Find out more here.
Keep an eye on CQUni Student News Facebook page to stay up to date with other events and activities.
