R U OK? Day

Calling Coaches and Athletes – the foundations of team culture and knowing when to ask – R U OK?

R U OK? Day is a national day of action to remind Australians that every day is the day to ask “are you OK?” if you think someone in your world may be struggling with life’s ups and downs. 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone and circumstances have made it even more important for us all to stay connected and, for those who are able, be willing to support those around us.

Grassroots sporting communities are familiar environments to Physio Connex staff. We feel it is part of our shared-responsibility to help get the message out there on the importance of developing a club culture – built on mutual respect, trust, authenticity and a willingness to support those in your team that may be struggling.

Remember, building that culture comes from a team effort. See below some behaviours that you can adopt to help your peers, or if you are a coach, how to help your athletes:

1. Exhibiting kindness, reduce stigma and build trusting relationships
2. Ensuring sport is a positive and enjoyable experience for all
3. Promoting a team environment based on mutual respect and positive relationships
4. Encouraging support of the local community or club association
5. Be confident and willing to have a meaningful R U OK conversation

Being a coach, manager, health professional or teammate is not only about enjoying the glory of sport but also the ups and downs of your peer’s lives. Regardless whether you feel adequately equipped or qualified to help someone with their mental health, there are many things you can do to promote a positive environment and knowing when to ask R U OK?

This year R U OK? Day will be held on Thursday 10^th September 2020 and the message is “there’s more to say after are you OK?”. Here’s some tips on how to talk to a team mate that you think may need some help:

1. Listen with an open mind

• Don’t interrupt them or rush the conversation
• Encourage them to explain
• Show that you have listened by repeating back (in your own words) what you’ve heard and ask if you have understood them properly

2. Encourage action

• Some questions you can ask include “what have you done in the past to manage similar situations?” or “how would you like me to support you?”
• If they have been feeling really down for more than two weeks encourage them to see a health professional. You could say, “It might be useful to link in with someone who can support you. I’m happy to assist you to find the right person to talk to.”

3. Check in

• Put a reminder in your phone to contact them in a couple of weeks, or sooner if they are really down. You can ask “I’ve been thinking of you and wanted to know how you’ve been going since we last chatted.”

If you’re struggling with your mental health, consult with your medical practitioner or access these 24/7 Mental Health Services: