R U OK?
"A simple phrase like 'R U OK?' could shield someone from the rain of despair and sorrow, and it could be the light in their darkness."
This creation is inspired by 'R U OK?', a suicide prevention charity in Australia. It's also inspired by the love and support that I've received, after I have opened up about my mental health struggles, I'm grateful that there are people who reached out to me, to ask if I'm OK, thank you so much for all your kindness. This creation depicts how I feel like when someone sends me a message asking if I'm OK, the message is like an umbrella that shields me from the rain of despair and sorrow, it lights up my dark world.
As someone who suffers from depression, anxiety and ADHD, I can tell you it’s very difficult to reach out for help. A simple message from someone could help me on days that are tough, it may not directly solve my problems but it does make me feel better.
We don't need to be an expert to reach out - just a good friend and a great listener. Show your empathy and compassion.
Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:
- Ask 'R U OK?'
- Listen
- Encourage action
- Check in
While asking if people are OK is important, but so is asking yourself the same thing... don't forget to ask yourself 'R U OK?'. Stop, take a break, take a deep breath and check in with yourself. :)
If we continue this practice, we could make the world a kinder place, the world is a kinder place when we are kind.
Sound from Zapsplat.com
*Note: This creation is not affiliated with 'R U OK?' charity, however, 10% of the primary sales would be donated to 'R U OK?' charity.