ROdown Blog
Are you OK? An excuse to ask the question on 29 November
Almost all of us have had times when a friend has been down or has been going through a tough time.
Some people are great at letting people know how they’re going; they know when to speak with a friend, family member or counsellor to get support if they’re going through a tough time and don’t see talking about their problems as a weakness.
However, many people don’t talk about their difficulties or seek support when they really need it. This might be for a number of reasons, including not knowing who they can talk to, or being worried about what people will think if they do open up.
Sometimes you might suspect that your friend is not OK, but struggle to find the words or time to bring it up, or be worried about how your concern might be received.
The thing is, if someone is going through a really tough time, it can be a massive relief to be given permission to say ‘I’m not OK’ and to be given an easy opportunity to ask for help.
That’s what Are you OK? Day is about – giving people the excuse to ask their friends and family if they’re ok, and giving people information about how and where to get help if they need it. Are you OK? Day will be held for the first time ever on 29 November this year.
For more info on how to get help if you or a friend need it check out the Who can help you section on ReachOut.com or the Are you OK? Day website.
Email this page
Not a member?
Join Reach Out to access a range of great member features.
Forgot your password?
7 Comments
Log in to join the conversation. Join Reach Out.
Robyn
over 2 years ago
Reply ReportYou are so right Bella. Even if someone doesn't say how they are feeling one day, doesn't mean they wont on other days. The more you ask someone if they are ok, the more they will feel comfortable with you and are more likely to open up to you with their difficulties.
Love to know how everyone goes!! xoxo
Bella.
over 2 years ago
Reply ReportWow, what a cool idea.
Antria
over 2 years ago
Reply ReportWould love to hear how people do with asking friends R U Ok?!
beforetheworst
over 2 years ago
Reply ReportThat's an awesome initiative!!
Ophelia.L
over 2 years ago
Reply ReportWaahoo!! *Thanks M (friend from America) I am stealing her word! :P
Michelle-InspireStaff
over 2 years ago
Reply ReportThis sounds like a great idea! I think sometimes it can be really hard to ask a friend how they are doing, especially if they are trying to keep their heads above water. But often all it takes, is someone caring to ask them whether they are okay, to give them the space and permission to open up.
Michelle-InspireStaff
over 2 years ago
Reply ReportThis sounds like a great idea! I think sometimes it can be really hard to ask a friend how they are doing, especially if they are trying to keep their heads above water. But often all it takes, is someone caring to ask them whether they are okay, to give them the space and permission to open up.