R U OK? Day is coming up – 10 September
R U OK? Day is an important reminder for all of us at CFA to pause and check in with one another.
A genuine conversation can make a difference. Asking “Are you OK?” lets people know they are seen, supported and valued.
Volunteering and working in emergency services can be physically and emotionally demanding.
Changes in someone’s wellbeing can be easy to overlook when we are focused on helping others.
Taking the time to notice, ask and listen can strengthen the connections that support us through challenging times.
R U OK? Day will be held this year on Thursday 10 September. It is a day to remind us to check in - but supporting each other’s mental health should be part of our everyday culture. Small, regular conversations help us build a safer, more connected and more supportive CFA.
Start a conversation in four steps
Begin with a simple question such as:
- “How are you travelling?”
Choose a suitable time and place, ask openly and let the person know you have time to listen.
If someone shares that they are struggling, listen without judgement or rushing to solve the problem. Acknowledging what they have said and allowing them to talk can be a powerful form of support.
Ask what support might help and offer practical assistance where you can. If appropriate, encourage the person to access professional support through CFA’s Wellbeing program or another trusted service.
Follow up after your first conversation. A short message or another conversation shows that your support is genuine and ongoing.
Ways to get involved
Bring people together at your work or brigade location
Host a morning or afternoon tea, organise a conversation or team activity, or invite a CFA peer to speak with your group. You could also wear yellow or offer a small prize for the best conversation starter.
R U OK? Day provides resources to help you raise awareness and encourage meaningful conversations.
Complete CFA’s online mental health training
Two wellbeing eLearns are available:
The modules cover how to have conversations about mental health and the wellbeing services available to CFA members and their families.
Plan a wellbeing workshop
There are six workshops available to help members:
- have effective wellbeing conversations
- recognise changes in their own and others’ mental health and wellbeing
Delivered by CFA’s Organisational Wellbeing team, the one-to-two-hour face-to-face workshops combine videos, practical information and personal stories from CFA members. Learn more and book a workshop.
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Use the CFA thrive wellbeing app
CFA thrive allows you to assess where you are on the mental health continuum - a great way to manage and normalise fluctuations in our wellbeing as well as get comfortable with communicating how we are feeling.
The continuum can also help you identify practical steps to support yourself and maintain your wellbeing.
Support is available
CFA members and their families can access a range of resources and services through the Wellbeing Hub.
The CFA Wellbeing Support Line, including the Member Assistance Program, provides free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is available to CFA volunteers, employees and their immediate family members.
Wellbeing Support Line: 1800 959 232
There are also a number of other external professional help services:
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
- MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78