4 steps of an R U OK? conversation
Taking the time to check in with someone can have more of an impact than you might think. After all, a conversation could change a life.
- Ask R U OK?
- Listen with an open mind
- Encourage action
- Check in
Taking the time to check in with someone can have more of an impact than you might think. After all, a conversation could change a life.
R U OK? inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with the people around them and start a conversation with those in their world who may be struggling with life.
By starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up. If they say they are not OK, you can follow our conversation steps to show them they’re supported and help them find strategies to better manage the load. If they are OK, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask. Check out the practical guide to help you ask question in a safe and supportive way.
As a small business owner, you’ll know the highs and lows of running your own company. While it can be incredibly rewarding, both mentally and financially, stress and challenges are not withstanding.
Small businesses are often family-like in nature, especially in smaller working environments such as retail and salons, so it’s only natural to become close with staff. That in turn can see you in a position to recognise when someone isn’t themselves.
When someone in your team is struggling, it is normal to worry about the impacts it will have on your business, but by supporting your staff first, you will also support your business in the long-term.
The Small Business Owner Mental Health Survey (2020) asked business owners about their main sources of stress and overall mental health. The main factors that were expressed as contributing to stress in a business can be summarised into two core areas, that is their financial concerns and their concerns about the effect on family and personal life. The stage of the business cycle has a large effect on mental wellbeing of the SBOs in the startup and pre-profit stage.
The data shows that wellbeing levels will vary with the differences mostly due to age or business lifecycle stage. In some cases, the type of industry may affect ratings.
Several organisations offer mental health support and resources to business owners and the wider community. They include:
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