The R U OK? Day campaign is over for another year but that doesn’t mean you should stop asking the question. Always ask.

You don’t need a specific date to ask your mates if they are ok. Any day is a good day to ask, to talk, to be there for someone.

Check in with your peeps every now and then. Let them know they are not alone and you’re always there for them. Always.

Why? Because sometimes it’s hard for people who are struggling to get the words out to ask for help. To know that they have someone to talk to. But if they hear from a friend like you, someone that’s willing to listen, they might just let you in and help them through the dark.

If you’re on the other side, feeling down and out, the fog is getting thicker… take the offer. If someone asks R U OK?, answer them honestly. Don’t be afraid. Think about how hard it is to ask for help. It’s SO FUCKING HARD. But if you take the opportunity to answer honestly then you will slowly break down those barriers.

I still have ups and downs with my anxiety and depression all the time and some days it shows more than others. It’s a fuckin bitch of a thing, heck, I even had a moment this morning! But I’ve now got friends who ask me all the right questions and I know they will be there when I need them.

I know all too well it’s hard to get the words out and ask for help. But people won’t make you feel any less of a human if you ask to talk. They will listen and they will fill your heart with warmth.

So please, go ask your mates, family members, work colleagues, give your pet a cuddle – just let them know you’re there for them.

♥♥♥

Other services like Lifeline can help when you’re feeling at a loss. Get in touch with them here.