R U OK? Day

By Alan J. McDonald

Smile;
Be kind;
Look out;
Listen without judgement;
Would you say something?
Then start a conversation and ask,

R U OK?

Australians will gather together on Thursday 14th September to remind people to ask family, friends and colleagues the question that is the heart to suicide prevention, R U OK?

The Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed in 2015 that 3027 people died from intentional self-harm. The standardised death rate has increased from 10.2 deaths per 100,000 people in 2006 to 12.6 deaths per 100,000 people in 2015.

R U OK? creates a vision where everyone is connected and we are protected from suicide. R U OK? Day is used as an inspiration and to empower everyone to connect and offer support to anyone struggling with life.

McDonald Murholme are constantly thinking of the wellbeing of staff and reminding employees that even a small conversation can help change lives. The firm believes that continuing to educate managers and team leaders about mental health in the workplace helps to bring colleagues together and are therefore willing to engage with one another.

An all year-round occurrence but in particular the week of R U OK? day and World Suicide prevention day, McDonald Murholme will endeavour to:

• Provide a safe and healthy workplace
• Promote support networks available in the community that can be accessed by employee’s
• Supporting employees who are going through a tough or difficult time

McDonald Murholme will be supporting R U OK? Day with an organised work event that includes finishing work earlier to have an afternoon of relaxation and team bonding through a planned external event. The event will give staff the chance to connect outside of work hours and engage with one another personally.

It can be said that employers who connect with their employees, and bring together a positive team culture not only improve the wellbeing of staff but will also boost productivity around the workplace.