Ask R U OK? Every day
Dear all.
This Thursday is R U OK? Day. This year’s theme is R U OK? Any day, because a lot can happen in a year, a month, a week.
It’s a day that has become a focal point on our annual calendar to come together to support each other and remind our teammates that every day is the day to ask, ‘are you OK?’.
It’s a day to remind ourselves to Chat and Check-in with a workmate, any day, and have conversations that can help them through a difficult time.
The statistics around the construction industry and mental health are alarming, with workers in this industry six times more likely to die from suicide than an accident at work.
One-in-four building and construction workers are likely to be experiencing a mental health issue at any one time.
This was highlighted recently by Winslow Constructors Foreman Luke Humphrey, who was happy to share his story and I hope it will encourage others who may be struggling with mental health issues to speak up, and others to chat and check-in.
We continue to build capacity around the Group to support and care for each other throughout the year with our trained Mental Health First Aiders.
Just by having a chat to check in on their mental health can make all the difference.
It’s easy to learn how to ask RUOK? to have a conversation using 4 steps:
- Chat and Check-in
- Listen with an open mind
- Encourage action
- Chat and Check-in
A conversation can help make them feel supported and confident that they have someone to talk to if they need it.
So, let’s scrap the stigma and all come together as one.
Regards,
Rohan Davidson
Chief Executive Officer – Construction
Winslow Group