R U OK? Day: How to start the conversation
The Port Stephens community is being urged to take more than a passing interest in R U OK? Day on Thursday, September 9.
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With lockdown restrictions taking their toll on people of all ages, residents are being reminded to check on friends and family, students and the elderly.
A common issue in society is how to go about supporting someone once they are ready to talk.
Here a few simple tips for making an open and supportive conversation:
- Make space - ensure you have plenty of time for your friend.
- It's not about you - position them and their experience as the focal point.
- Keep it simple - it's OK for conversations to be brief.
- Be honest - it's better to be truthful if you don't know what to say or how to cope.
- Be present - keep bringing yourself back to what they're saying.
- If there's an emergency, dial 000.
For more information on how to ask 'are you okay?' and what to do if the person you ask says 'no' head to www.ruok.org.au.
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