R U OK? Day on Thursday 14 September is a national day of action to remind Australians that every day is the day to ask ‘Are you okay?’

The theme this year is ‘I’m here to hear’, which calls on everyone to let the people you care about know you’re here, to really hear them. Finding a space free from distraction and taking the time to genuinely listen with an open mind could be a lifeline for someone needing support.

Macquarie’s Chief People Officer David Ward says, “The power of conversation can make a difference to someone struggling with their mental health. Finding the time to connect and look out for each other is essential, especially in the midst of busy schedules.

“At Macquarie, we are part of a unique and supportive community, and I encourage you all to take advantage of the beautiful campus setting to meet with friends and colleagues and regularly check in with each other.”

R U OK? Day serves as a reminder that showing genuine care and taking the time to listen can have a profound impact on someone’s mental wellbeing.

Tips and tools At Macquarie, there are many resources and services available to support mental health and wellbeing: Mental Health Support on the WHS Hub Contact Benestar EAP on 1300 360 364 or create a BeneHub account Mindspot – MQ Health’s free online mental health service Mental Health First Aiders – A Mental Health First Aid officer is formally accredited to administer mental health first aid Macquarie contacts for support services Staff Wellbeing Program, including links to resources, training and webinars to support mental health and wellbeing. Psychologists from Macquarie University’s mental health service, MindSpot, have identified five key types of behaviour that contribute to good mental health. The Black Dog Institute – ‘Understanding Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing’ courses for staff and managers: Understanding Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing at Macquarie for Staff (45 mins) Understanding Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing at Macquarie for Macquarie Managers (60 mins)

This week there will be special events and offers associated with R U OK? Day

Buy one, get one free coffee offer

Campus Life is supporting R U OK? Day by encouraging Macquarie University staff to get out of the office and have a coffee with colleagues. Crunch Cafe, Library Cafe, Wally’s Coffee and Toasties and Ubar are all offering a buy one coffee, get one free deal. To be eligible both staff members must be at the outlet together.

R U OK? Day webinar

Join Dr Jessamine Chen on 14 September at 12pm for a webinar on general tips and strategies for maintaining good mental health. Dr Chen is a registered Clinical Psychologist and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences. Register here.

Macquarie University Sport and Aquatic Centre free access

Exercise plays an important role in mental health, and MUSAC will provide free access to the Sport and Aquatic Centre on 14 September. Register here and bring the confirmation email with you to enjoy the positive feelings exercising offers.