R U OK? message reaches 20,000 across WSLHD

10 Sep, 2020, 8:49 am10 Sep, 2020, 8:49 am Sarah Mason

Westmead Hospital screening team are providing specialised check in wristbands for R U OK Day to visitors and staff

Almost 20,000 people across Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) will be asked if they are okay today. To mark R U OK? day, a national day of action to prevent suicide, every single person entering WSLHD hospitals and facilities will receive a special R U OK? wristband.

R U OK? day empowers people to connect in supportive ways and while we should check in on those around us on every day of the year, R U OK? day reminds us why this is so important.

Across WLSHD staff and the community are being reminded to support people who may be struggling. If you feel like something’s not quite the same with someone you know – there’s something going on in their life or you notice a change in what they’re saying or doing – trust that gut instinct and take the time to ask them “Are you OK?”

RN Vanessa Ramoz Valdez and Assistant Nurse Ysabel Rovella are part of the screening team.

Follow R U OK?’s four steps:

Ask R U OK?
Listen with an open mind
Encourage action
Check in.

WSLHD chief executive Graeme Loy said that this year more than ever, it’s important that we stay connected and check in on each other.

“COVID has been a challenge for us all. I am exceptionally proud of our staff who have continued to deliver good outcomes for the people of Western Sydney while faced with significant uncertainty and change,” Graeme said.

“While our staff have been focused on caring for the community, we can’t forget that even the carers need support too.

“If you’ve noticed a change, no matter how small, ask R U OK? A conversation could make a difference in someone’s life.”

This year R U OK? day is encouraging people to learn what to say after R U OK? to help keep the conversation going when someone says “No, I’m not OK”. For help on what to say check out the R U OK? conversation guide.

For more conversation tips, visit the ‘How to Ask’ page: ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

For COVID-19 health and wellbeing resources visit the COVID-19 community resources for Western Sydney site here.

If you need immediate crisis or emotional support you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.