#RUOKDay sparks a national conversation that can help save lives

By
Thursday, 8 September 2016

Aussies across the country took to Twitter today to mark #RUOKDay in support of suicide prevention charity R U OK? (@RUOKDay), as the organisation called on everyone to reconnect with mates, family, and colleagues and ask them #RUOK?

New research released by R U OK? reveals one third of Aussies have unintentionally lost contact with four or more family members or friends. It also shows that 24 per cent have stopped talking with four to eight loved ones, and a further 10 per cent of us with nine or more people.



Country music star and @RUOKDay Ambassador Travis Collins (@TravisCollins01) shared his personal story and hosted a live Q&A in @TwitterAU’s #BlueRoom. Travis offered his advice on how to best start a conversation with a mate.

Travis also performed “Call Me Crazy”, a song dedicated to everyone who’s ever lost someone too soon.

Individuals and organisations across Australia took part in the #RUOKDay movement.



Asking a young person this question might be the first step for them in getting help for a tough time they are experiencing.



#RUOKDay is about encouraging more people not be afraid to start a conversation with anyone they might be worried about.

Follow @RUOKDay on Twitter to join the conversation around #RUOKDay. Also make sure to follow @TravisCollins01 and all the other #RUOKDay Ambassadors to hear their encouraging advice!

Be part of the movement and celebrate the legends in your life! A conversation can change a life. Start one today. We did!

The truth is some conversations just become too big for family and friends. Like you, R U OK? is not equipped to offer crisis intervention or expert counselling. Professional care can be found from many of their partners, including @TwitterAU’s safety partner Lifeline (@LifelineAust).