Hey All
As you may or may not know today is National R U Ok day. A day where you reach out to someone and ask that simple question R U Ok?
It seems like a simple thing to do but you could be amazed at the difference it could make to someone who is struggling a little. The current times we are living in are hard on most of us. The Covid-19 Pandemic, The Lock down, The home schooling, maybe a loss of employment etc etc. People deal with these situations in different ways, and while they may look fine on the surface some may be really struggling inside and may really benefit from a quick chat or coffee just to get things off their chest.
I am by no means and expert of any of these issues, but I know that when you do this please just listen with an open mind, don't judge. Here are a few tips for you to help you out from the R U ok Website -
Take what they say seriously and don't interrupt or rush the conversation.
Don’t judge their experiences or reactions but acknowledge that things seem tough for them.
If they need time to think, sit patiently with the silence.
Encourage them to explain: "How are you feeling about that?" or "How long have you felt that way?"
Show that you've listened by repeating back what you’ve heard (in your own words) and ask if you have understood them properly.
If you feel someone may be struggling and that your chat may not be the cure you were hoping for please encourage them to talk to a professional, help them do that. Ask them have they spoken to someone etc, be positive about it. I will put the Lifeline Number at the bottom of this.
Lastly from me on this, can I please encourage you all to do this ALL the time? While R U ok day is a great initiative and gets people talking which helps lift the stigma on Mental Health, peoples problems will still be there tomorrow, next week, next Month etc. Let's all make a decision to be more aware of our loved ones, our work mate and of course our gym Family. It honestly takes so little time out of your life to save someone else.
Thanks you legends for your time, and believe me when I say that I am here for each and everyone of you. Never hesitate to hit me up if you need an ear to talk to, a shoulder to cry on or even just a body to bash.
Stay Safe all, Luke xx
Lifeline - 131114
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