What do you say after R U OK?

CONVERSATION READY... GMCU Shepparton branch team members, Rhyll Hicks (left) and Kelsey McDonald are encouraging people to continue the conversation around mental health on the back of last week’s R U OK?Day. Photo: Struan Jones
CONVERSATION READY… GMCU Shepparton branch team members, Rhyll Hicks (left) and Kelsey McDonald are encouraging people to continue the conversation around mental health on the back of last week’s R U OK?Day. Photo: Struan Jones

THIS year, more than ever, it’s important to ask your friends, family, customers and colleagues, R U OK? But it’s also important to know what to say if the person says ‘no’.

RU OK?Day organisers are reminding people this year that there is more to say after ‘R U OK?’, and it’s important to listen with an open mind and encourage action.

As in previous years, GMCU continues to support mental health initiatives, such as R U OK?Day, by helping raise awareness in branches.

“We encourage supportive conversations at GMCU,” GMCU chief executive officer, Melissa Ralph said.

“This year especially, our staff have been reaching out and checking in with their colleagues, as well as our members.

“R U OK?Day is an important reminder that conversations can change lives.”

If there is more to say after R U OK, or the conversation is too big for friends, family or colleagues, it is a good idea to talk to a counsellor via LifeLine, Beyond Blue, SANE or headspace.

GMCU members who are under financial stress as a direct result of COVID-19 restrictions can access pro bono financial guidance through GMCU’s partnership with IOOF.

Affected members can pop in to a branch or visit gmcu.com.au for more details on how to access free financial guidance and support to get back on their feet.