New research1 has revealed that one in three people underestimate the difference they can make by asking someone if they’re OK, yet the vast majority of people who have been asked felt supported and positive about the experience.
The message is simple: ‘If you’re thinking it, Ask R U OK? Any Day’ and start a conversation that can change a life.
As Australia approaches R U OK?Day 2026 on Thursday 10 September, the organisation is encouraging people to act when they think someone they care about might be struggling.
Held on the second Thursday of September, R U OK?Day is the nation’s annual Day of Action, reminding people across Australia that meaningful conversations don’t have to be perfect, but they do need to be genuine and happen regularly throughout the year.
Lach Searle, CEO of R U OK?, says the findings show that while most people care deeply about others and have the best of intentions, they might still hesitate to ask. He wants to reassure everyone that you don’t need to be an expert or have all the answers.
“So many people want to help but sometimes they hold back because they’re not sure whether checking in with someone will really make a difference,” said Mr Searle. “What this research tells us is that asking ‘are you OK?’ is often more appreciated than people realise and while a conversation might not solve everything, it lets them know they don’t have to face life’s ups and downs alone.
“That’s why our message this year is simple: ‘If you’re thinking it, Ask R U OK? Any Day’. If you’ve noticed someone doesn’t seem quite themselves, trust that instinct and reach out,” said Mr Searle. “A genuine conversation might help turn around someone’s day, support them through a difficult week, or be the first step towards getting through a tougher time.”
R U OK? is here to help with the ‘4 steps of an R U OK? Conversation’ framework, ALEC (Ask, Listen, Encourage Action, and Check In). They also offer free resources to build your conversation confidence and skills.
For Eliza Bunner, 30, a teacher from Newcastle, a simple question asked with care became a turning point in her life.
“There was a time when I was really struggling, but I was masking it well,” said Ms Bunner. “My best friend at the time noticed and took a moment to ask if I was OK. I already knew I wasn’t coping, but that conversation made it easier to open up and take the first steps towards getting support.”
“Looking back, I can see how powerful that conversation was. It didn’t solve everything overnight, but it was a crucial turning point that helped me get the support I needed,” said Ms Bunner.
Inspired by her own experience, Ms Bunner now volunteers as an R U OK? Community Ambassador, sharing her story to help build confidence and encourage more Australians to start meaningful conversations when someone might be struggling.
“That’s why I encourage people to trust their instinct and ask the question,” she added. “You never know how much your support might mean to someone, and a simple conversation really can change a life.”
Principal Psychologist Rachel Clements says the findings challenge the misconception that checking in with someone won’t make a difference.
“Meaningful support doesn’t require expertise,” said Ms Clements. “What matters most is making time to ask, listening without judgement and being present.
“If you’re thinking about someone’s wellbeing, that’s reason enough to check in. A simple conversation can help someone feel seen, heard and supported.”
R U OK?Day 2026 encourages everyone to act: ‘If you’re thinking it, Ask R U OK? Any Day’ because your conversation could change a life.
R U OK? provides free, practical tools and resources to help people across Australia feel more confident to start and continue having regular, meaningful conversations with the people they care about.
Visit ruok.org.au to access free conversation tips, resources and support.
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