R U OK? Day - A Day to Connect and Care

R U OK? Day 2023 is Thursday 14 September and is a national day of action when we remind Australians that every day is the day to ask, ‘are you OK?’.  It is all about encouraging meaningful conversations to support mental health. At St John’s, we believe that nurturing the emotional well-being of our students, staff, and parents is of utmost importance, and this day provides us with a great opportunity to reinforce that commitment.

Why is R U OK? Day Important?

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life. We often forget to ask those around us a simple but incredibly important question: "Are you okay?" R U OK? Day serves as a reminder that we can make a significant difference in someone's life by taking a moment to connect, listen, and show that we care.

How We're Celebrating at St John’s Primary School

On Thursday, 14 September, we encourage all students and staff to wear something yellow to show their support for R U OK? Day. The colour yellow represents hope and positivity, and we want to create a visually uplifting environment on this special day.

Throughout the week leading up to R U OK? Day, our students will engage in age-appropriate activities and discussions about the importance of checking in on each other's well-being. Teachers will use resources and materials provided by R U OK? to facilitate these conversations in the classroom.

Getting Involved as Parents and Carers

We believe that involving parents and guardians in our R U OK? Day activities can have a profound impact on our school community. Here's how you can participate:

• Talk to Your Child: Take a moment to discuss the significance of R U OK? Day with your child. Encourage them to share their feelings and thoughts with you.
• Wear Yellow: Join us in wearing something yellow on Thursday, to support the cause.
• Ask, Listen, and Encourage: Be open to having meaningful conversations with your child. Let them know that you're there to listen and support them.
• Share Resources: Visit the R U OK? website (www.ruok.org.au) for a wealth of resources on how to start a conversation, what to say, and where to seek help if needed.
• Spread the Word: Share your R U OK? Day experiences on social media using the hashtag #RUOKDay. Help us raise awareness and inspire others to ask the important question, "Are you okay?"

R U OK? Day is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and prioritise the mental well-being of our children, ourselves, and each other. Let's make a conscious effort to ask, listen, and care not only on this day but every day.

Thank you for your ongoing support, and together, let's make R U OK? Day a day of connection, compassion, and caring.

Assistant Principal and Inclusion Coordinator