RU OK? Day 2024

​RU OK? Day is an annual event in Australia dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. Held on the second Thursday of September, it encourages people to connect with others and ask the simple, yet powerful, question: "Are you okay?" This day serves as a reminder that a caring conversation can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Charlton Neighbourhood House and others across the Mallee and northern Victoria are proud to be supporting this important initiative again.
The day emphasizes that mental health struggles can affect anyone and that reaching out with genuine concern can offer support to those in need. It promotes the idea that checking in on friends, family, and colleagues and actively listening to their responses can help foster a supportive community.
RU OK? Day is not just about one day of action but aims to inspire ongoing conversations and support systems. It highlights the importance of being proactive in mental health and encourages people to make asking "Are you okay?" a regular part of their interactions. By normalizing these conversations, RU OK? Day seeks to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage more people to seek help when they need it.
The Charlton Neighbourhood House this year organized a ‘Duck Hunt’ around the town, with participating businesses hiding ducks in their shop or window. Residents could locate a duck and bring it along to a very special afternoon tea on Thursday September 12 celebrating the message of RU OK? Day. Along with the important message being shared, prizes were awarded to those ‘lucky ducks’ discovered. Everyone involved agreed it was a wonderful way to raise awareness on this initiative. Thank you to Buloke Shire for their support along with the Mallee Network of Neighbourhood Houses.