Let’s talk: R U OK? Day – Thursday 11 September

This annual initiative encourages us to ask a simple but powerful question: “Are you OK?” It’s a reminder that a genuine conversation can make a real difference.  

“R U OK? Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s about encouraging open, everyday conversations about mental health and raising awareness of the support available to help us start those conversations," Manager of Organisational Wellbeing Suzanne Leckie said.  

Volunteering and working in emergency services can be demanding - both physically and emotionally. The signs that someone is struggling can be easy to miss, especially when we’re focused on helping others.  

CFA offers a range of resources to support you in having that first wellbeing conversation, including Mental Health Literacy training and our Wellbeing Workshop series. These tools are designed to help members recognise signs of distress and respond with confidence and care. 

Research from R U OK? shows that people who are regularly asked how they’re doing feel more supported, connected and valued. And in a role where teamwork is critical, those connections matter. 

“Sometimes just knowing that someone cares can make all the difference. By checking in with each other, we build stronger relationships and a more resilient organisation,” Suzanne said. 

R U OK? Day is a great reminder about the importance of checking in, but the message doesn’t end there. Supporting each other’s mental health should be part of our everyday culture at CFA.  

“It’s about creating space for meaningful conversations and showing genuine care for those around us – every day of the year,” Suzanne added. 

“You don't need to be an expert to reach out – just a good friend and a great listener.” 

Start a conversation with these four steps:

1. Ask R U OK?
Simply asking someone 'Are you OK?’, ‘what’s been happening’ or ‘how are you travelling’ can make a big difference. It shows that you care and can open the door to a meaningful conversation.

2. Listen
If someone shares their struggles with you, listen without judgement. Sometimes just having someone to talk to can help. 

3. Encourage action
Let them know you’re there for them and offer practical support or encourage them to access professional support including through CFA’s Wellbeing program.

4. Check in
Follow up with the person after your initial conversation. Consistent support shows that you genuinely care about their wellbeing.

Other ways to get involved 

There are many ways to get involved on R U OK? Day and learn more about mental health and wellbeing so you are prepared and feel confident to have a conversation. 

Talk to a CFA peer

CFA has a team of volunteer and corporate peers trained to offer mental health and wellbeing support to their fellow CFA members. Meet our peers and learn more about the Peer Support Program here 

Bring people together at your CFA work location 

You could host a morning or afternoon tea or organise a team building activity. Wear yellow, invite a guest speaker (such as a CFA peer) and award prizes for the best conversation starter. R U OK? Day has a range of resources available to help you raise awareness and start a conversation. 

Complete CFA’s online mental health training  

There are two modules available: one for all CFA members called Mind Matters: Psychological Health & Safety at CFA and one specific to leaders at CFA called Leading for Wellbeing.

The modules include information about how to have conversations with others about their mental health as well as the wellbeing support services available to CFA members and their families. 

Express interest in hosting a Wellbeing Workshop 

There are six workshops, designed to support members to build resilience, learn how to have wellbeing conversations, build awareness of trauma and recognise changes in their own and other’s mental health and wellbeing. 

Delivered by CFA’s Organisational Wellbeing team, the one-to-two-hour, face-to-face workshops include videos, practical information and personal stories from CFA members. Learn more and book here

Show your support for R U OK? Day by updating your Teams background  

Download an R U OK? Day background from our Wellbeing Resources page to help raise awareness, show you care and remind your colleagues to check in with one another. 

Sign up for our free, web-based wellbeing app - CFA Thrive 

The mental health continuum is a great way for us to manage and normalise fluctuations in our wellbeing as well as get comfortable with communicating how we are feeling. 

CFA thrive allows you to assess where you are on the mental health continuum and provides support options to help you work your way back to the healthy/green range and stay there. 

Access a range of resources and support options via The Wellbeing Hub 

A range of resources and support is available to CFA members and their families. CFA’s Member Assistance Program is always available, offering confidential support whenever you need it. 

Contact the Wellbeing Support Line  

If you are not OK, or if you notice a change in someone you know, you can contact the CFA Wellbeing Support Line on 1800 959 232 to access free, confidential support that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Wellbeing services are available to all CFA volunteers, employees and their immediate family members. 

To view the complete range of services, visit the Wellbeing Hub on Members Online.  

There are also a number of other external professional help services: 

Lifeline - 13 11 14 

Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636 

Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467 

MensLine Australia - 1300 78 99 78