A genuine question can open an important conversation
R U OK? Day is held on the second Thursday of September. In 2026, it falls on Thursday, 10 September. The national campaign reminds Australians to stay connected and ask a simple but meaningful question when someone may be struggling.
A workplace R U OK? conversation does not require you to be a counsellor or mental health professional. It begins with noticing that someone may not seem like themselves, choosing an appropriate moment and being willing to listen to the answer.
The conversation does not need to be perfect. What matters is that the question is genuine and the person has the time and space to respond.
Before you ask
Choose a time when you can give the person your full attention. Avoid raising a personal concern in front of a group, during a rushed handover or when you will need to leave immediately.
Think about what you have noticed. Perhaps the person has become quieter, appears overwhelmed, is making unusual mistakes or has withdrawn from normal conversations. Focus on the change you observed rather than making assumptions about its cause.
A private, informal setting can make the conversation feel more natural. This might be during a quiet break, while having a coffee or in another place where you are unlikely to be interrupted.
The four steps of an R U Ok? conversation
1. Ask R U OK?
Use a relaxed and concerned approach. An open question may be easier to answer than a question that invites only yes or no. You might say, “You have seemed quieter than usual lately. How are things going?”
If the person says they are fine but you remain concerned, explain what you have noticed. Do not pressure them or turn the conversation into a confrontation. Let them know you are available if they want to talk later.
2. Listen with an open mind
Give the person time to speak. Avoid interrupting, dismissing their concerns or immediately comparing their experience with your own. You do not need to fill every silence.
Listening well may involve asking gentle follow-up questions, acknowledging that the situation sounds difficult and checking that you have understood what they are saying.
3. Encourage Action
Ask what might help and whether they have spoken to someone they trust. Depending on the situation, useful support could include a family member, friend, manager, employee assistance program, health professional or crisis support service.
You are not expected to diagnose the issue or become the person’s only source of support. Your role is to listen, encourage a reasonable next step and help them connect with appropriate assistance.
4. Check In
Follow up after the conversation. A short message or another quiet conversation can show that your concern was genuine and that you have not forgotten what they shared.
Checking in does not mean demanding an update. It can be as simple as asking how they have been going and whether the next step they discussed was helpful.
If a conversation becomes urgent
Take statements about suicide, self-harm or immediate danger seriously. Stay with the person where it is safe to do so and seek urgent assistance. If you believe someone’s life is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).
Immediate support
Lifeline provides 24/7 crisis support on 13 11 14. Beyond Blue provides 24/7 support on 1300 22 4636. More services are available through the R U OK? Find Help page.
Carry the conversation beyond one day
R U OK? Day creates a valuable national moment, but its message is useful throughout the year. Regular, genuine conversations help people feel more comfortable speaking up when life becomes difficult.
Workplaces can support the message by helping workers and managers recognise changes, listen without judgement, respond appropriately and understand where further support is available.
OSIAT supports practical workplace learning that helps organisations build knowledge, confidence and safer workplace conversations.
