Don't let it be a silent night - give the gift of conversation
R U OK? is calling on Australians to give the ‘Gift of Conversation’ this holiday season.
When Sam Neill lent his voice to this special R U OK? adaptation of A Visit from St. Nicholas in 2020, he helped bring to life a simple but important message about connection and conversation. It’s one we’ve returned to each year since, and one we’re honoured to continue sharing with the kind support of Sam’s family.
While the holiday season can be a time of celebration and connection, it can also feel particularly isolating for people navigating grief, loneliness, health or financial challenges, or who can’t be with family and friends due to distance or circumstance.
This holiday season, take a moment to connect with the people in your world and let them know you’re thinking of them. If you’re not sure how to start, use the four steps of an R U OK? conversation: Ask, Listen, Encourage action and Check in.
A meaningful conversation can start in simple ways:
- Give someone a call or send them a message to let them know they’re on your mind.
- Invite someone for a coffee, meal or walk.
- Check in with someone who might be spending the holiday season alone or away from family and friends.
- Make time to ask, ‘are you OK?’ and listen to what’s really going on for them.
- Follow up with someone you know has been going through a difficult time.
- If you can’t be together in person, find another way to connect, whether that’s a phone call, video chat or thoughtful message.
Don’t let it be a silent night for those in your world. Reach out, give the gift of a meaningful conversation and show them you care. Learn how at www.ruok.org.au.
