Many think of heroic acts when someone's life has been saved, but sometimes it can be a matter of asking a simple question.
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Thursday is R U OK Day, a national day of action to encourage people to start a conversation to potentially prevent a crisis for someone who is struggling.
With the statewide lockdown in place, there has never been a more important time to reach out to your loved ones to ask the question - are you really okay?
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Nowra Headspace's Community Engagement Officer Sammi Stiff noted that asking follow up questions is just as important.
"It's always important to be checking in with your friends and loved ones and to ensure that we're constantly continuing to have conversations," she said.
"Because sometimes we feel that the issues we're having might not feel too big, but they can rapidly snowball, especially during COVID and the lockdown.
"Until someone asks that question, we can realise the current situation is having much bigger impact on us than we think."
And what if someone answers no?
Sammi said the best thing to do is to validate the person's feelings, ask if there is anything you can do to help and to also brush up on what local services are available to direct them to.
"The first thing you can do is ask, 'is there anything I can help with?'" she said.
"You can also refer them to some of the services that are available.
"Being aware of those services that are available remotely and encouraging people to go to their GP is very important."
During lockdown, it's hard to get the same connection with your friends and loved ones as you would face-to-face.
Sammi recommended having conversations over the phone rather than texting.
"Video calling friends can feel a little bit more connected because you're actually able to see them," she said.
"Rather than texting, even just picking up the phone and actually hearing their voice can help.
"Having these conversations regularly will help reduce the stigma that surrounds mental health issues."
On their website, you can also connect with a Headspace clinician via a chat box.
The free service offers a safe space to have a confidential conversation with a professional, and can be found here: https://headspace.org.au/eheadspace/connect-with-a-clinician/
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, please contact:
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Suicide Callback Service: 1300 659 467
NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
Kids Helpline (12 to 25): 1800 55 1800
MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
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