AFL NSW/ACT asks leagues R U OK? this August
hello • 22 July 2019
| R U OK? is delighted to welcome the support of AFL NSW/ACT for an inaugural R U OK? round. |
| To be played on 03-04 August by AFL NSW/ACT’s 14 managed leagues in New South Wales and ACT, the round is across the state and territory is a first for AFL NSW/ACT running a simultaneous initiative across all leagues in one weekend. Former Sydney Swans player Tom Derickx has welcomed the partnership and hopes it will inspire and empower the AFL community to meaningfully connect with people around them. Having made the successful transition from professional AFL player to musician, now vocalist and guitarist of his band KAYEX, Tom has seen the pressures faced by colleagues across a variety of sectors and knows life’s ups and downs do not discriminate. “I want the AFL community not be afraid or embarrassed to reach out and start the conversation with someone they feel might be struggling with life, there is no shame in asking for health.” said Derickx. “I believe vulnerability is a huge sign of strength and partnerships such as this offer a real opportunity to break down the stigma associated with how we talk about life’s ups and downs.” AFL NSW/ACT CEO Sam Graham said the leagues are excited to show a united front in relation to the conversation around positive peer support. “We are excited to have R U OK? on board as our mental health partner and are looking forward to R U OK? Round in early August,” said Graham. “The R U OK? Round looks to encourage clubs around the state and territory to get involved in the conversation surrounding mental health. “Our leagues and clubs provide great environments and supportive frameworks, where mateship and loyalty are at the core of our game. “The R U OK? Round will open even more avenues for awareness for mental health, and challenge everyone within our game to make sure that they ask that important question – are you ok?” CEO of R U OK? Katherine Newton said she is also looking forward to raising awareness of across the 14 leagues. "We're thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with AFL NSW/ACT and spread the R U OK? message through its vibrant community," Newton said "We know that both playing in a team and supporting a team can provide a sense of belonging. Not only for those playing but also for those in non-playing roles. "We want AFL NSW/ACT staff, players and fans to look out for each other on and off the field and trust their gut when they notice the signs that someone might be struggling with life." R U OK? and AFL NSW/ACT are encouraging all participants and clubs to get involved in supporting R U OK? round this coming August. Find out more on the AFL NSW/ACT website at: http://aflnswact.com.au/r-u-ok-round-announcement/ |
With Harmony Week highlighting the importance of belonging, Nazik’s story of overcoming adversity shows how connection can shape a life.
From growing up on farms to a shared interest in history, Australians, young and old, are discovering just how much they have in common, and how storytelling can connect generations in unexpected ways. What’s bringing them together is 'Heart and Soul Story', a social enterprise that fosters intergenerational connections. Through its programs, young people and older generations come together in aged care homes and schools to share stories, build life skills, and prevent loneliness. At a recent session which encouraged everyone to Ask R U OK? Any Day, students visited an aged-care community with R U OK? Conversation Bingo cards, which feature prompts to spark humour, curiosity, and connection.
The recent incident in Sydney has left many feeling distressed and overwhelmed, and you may notice the children in your life are struggling too. Below, you’ll find advice from mental health experts on caring for your own wellbeing, and providing meaningful support to others in the days and weeks ahead. Talking to children about traumatic events Children are likely to have seen and heard distressing information about this incident. Ongoing news coverage, images and discussion can intensify feelings of anxiety, sadness and anger. The Child Mind Institute has published a practical guide to help parents and carers talk with children about traumatic events. The guide offers practical age-specific advice and has been developed by experts in child psychology, you can access this guide here . Events involving violence or serious harm can be especially difficult for children to understand or discuss. The guide focuses on helping children feel safe, supported and reassured, and encourages parents, carers or guardians to: Provide comfort and reassurance, including physical affection Remain calm and measured when discussing the event Maintain regular routines to restore a sense of normality Encourage play, connection and time with others Share honest, age-appropriate information from trusted sources Limit children’s exposure to news, especially younger children Listen patiently and validate children’s feelings Recognise that fear, anger, sadness or guilt are all normal reactions Looking after yourself, and supporting others Rachel Clements, R U OK? Advisor, and Director of Psychological Services at Centre for Corporate Health, said strong emotional reactions are normal and healthy for people of all ages following public acts of violence, even among those not directly impacted. “Some reactions that are incredibly normal are concern, shock, horror, disbelief. When that wears off sometimes, people experience stronger feelings, sometimes anger, despair, sadness, anxiety or fear-based behaviour." Ms Clements advised that connecting with friends, sporting clubs, or workplace networks, and simply asking ‘are you OK?’, can play a key role in supporting people experiencing distress. "This event will disrupt the nervous system. One of the most important things we can do is stay connected, talk to each other and lean into supportive conversations,” Ms Clements said. She suggested starting a genuine conversation by asking questions such as: 'it's been tough watching this information coming to light, how are you feeling about it?’ “Then, all you’ve got to do is listen with empathy, without judgment or interruption, and just allow someone to talk about their experience and how they are feeling. When it is the right time in the conversation, you can then gently guide someone towards supportive actions, like doing some gentle exercise, staying connected with friends and family, or maintaining regular routines.” Ms Clements emphasised the importance of checking in again to ensure people have continued support. If you notice someone’s distress is ongoing for several weeks and begins to affect their work or social life, professional help should be encouraged. If you or the children in your care are experiencing ongoing distress, consider speaking with a doctor or another trusted healthcare provider. Free and professional 24/7counselling services are available, find contact details here . If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. Ask R U OK? Any Day.
