Firm Friendships Celebrated on R U OKAY? Day

“R U OK? Day” this year is set to be more significant than ever in the context of the coronavirus pandemic - and one local not-for-profit aged care organisation is participating to highlight its importance.

Staff and residents at Mercy Place Westcourt will check in with each other over morning tea today – Thursday 10 September 2020 – to promote the importance of connection and wellbeing in their own small community. It is considered an opportunity to show they care by asking a loved one, friend or a colleague if they are okay.

With those participating all wearing yellow - the colour of hope - the morning is set to empower the Mercy Place Westcourt community to meaningfully connect with each other and start a conversation with anyone who may be struggling with today’s challenging and sometimes worrying times.

Mercy Place Westcourt Acting Service Manager, Charlene Reyes, says “R U OK? Day” encourages people to check that they are genuinely doing okay with the ups and downs of life.

“The mental wellness of our residents and staff at Mercy Health is as important as their physical health, and for this reason we wanted to join in with “R U OK? Day” to emphasise its importance,” says Ms Reyes.  

“The day is about more than just asking a question, it’s also about taking away the stigma of asking others if they are okay, which then gives people the opportunity to talk about the steps they might need to seek support and help.

“At Mercy Health, we work closely with residents, family members, friends and volunteers to ensure that our seniors have the opportunity to continue to develop positive, healthy relationships, and that they are exposed to a network of people who ultimately help to enrich their lives.”

“R U OK? Day” is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to inspire and empower Australians to meaningfully connect with people around them and support anyone struggling with life. It is a national movement, with research showing that 80 per cent of Australians are aware of the day, and one in four have participated in an R U OK? Day activity in the past.

Find out more about Mercy Health.