This year, R U OK? Day 2024 falls on Thursday, September 12th. This national initiative encourages Australians to ask a simple yet powerful question—”Are you OK?”—to friends, family, colleagues, or even acquaintances. It’s a question that could make all the difference.
Every day, nine Australians tragically take their own lives. The impact of such loss ripples far beyond immediate friends and family, leaving a trail of heartache that can last for decades. Mental health affects everyone at some point—1 in 5 people will experience mental illness in their lifetime—yet the stigma around seeking help persists.
R U OK? Day 2024 has made significant strides in normalising these essential conversations, especially those that might feel uncomfortable. However, some still question whether the workplace is the right setting for such discussions. The truth is, it absolutely is.
Australians spend, on average, 37 to 42 hours a week at work. While that might not seem like a lot, consider this: after accounting for sleep, that leaves just 77 hours a week for everything else—kids, shopping, downtime, appointments. With life’s demands, the time for meaningful conversations often slips away. That’s why the workplace, where 8.85 million Australians spend most of their time, is crucial for connection and support.
R U OK? Day offers Australian employers a unique opportunity to educate employees about the importance of checking in on their colleagues. It’s also a chance to foster a culture where employees feel safe to answer honestly. So, as an employer, how can you ensure your employees are mentally well?
Be Informed for R U OK? Day 2024
Understanding mental health is the first step. The Black Dog Institute reports that one in five Australians aged 16-85 will experience mental illness in any given year. Even more concerning, an estimated 45% of Australians will experience mental illness at some stage in their lives.
The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues. According to headspace.org.au, 74% of young people reported worsening mental health during the outbreak. Now, rising interest rates and a rental crisis have replaced the pandemic as key stressors.
Matthew McLean from Suicide Prevention Australia highlighted that 46% of people are experiencing high levels of cost-of-living distress, with suicide numbers increasing last years. Financial strain not only causes mental health issues but also becomes a barrier to seeking help.
Despite these alarming statistics, 1 in 2 managers believe their employees are unaffected by mental illness. Employers must be properly informed and acknowledge the realities:
Mental illness is more common than many realise.
It can be caused by various factors, including genetic, biological, social, and environmental influences. People with mental illness cannot simply “pull themselves out of it.” With proper treatment, most cases of mental illness are treatable. By understanding these points, employers can empathise with their employees, inspiring the creation of policies and programs that promote a mentally healthy workplace. For example, consider downloading our ‘Know the Signs’ poster to help recognise when someone is struggling. Leadership’s visible and active support for mental wellbeing can lead to greater employee engagement.
What’s the Benefit?
Under the Work Health and Safety Act (2011), employers are legally required to protect both the mental and physical wellbeing of their employees. While physical safety has long been a priority, mental health is now equally recognised, and for good reason.
Mental health issues in the workplace are not just a human concern—they’re a business one too. Absenteeism, productivity loss, high turnover, and compensation claims due to undiagnosed mental illnesses cost Australian businesses $10.9 billion per year.
Conversely, workplaces that promote mental wellbeing are more productive, attract and retain better employees, and can reduce turnover by up to 51%. Research even shows that companies addressing mental health in their annual reports are three times more profitable than those that don’t. Creating a mentally healthy workplace is not only good for employees—it’s good for business too.
R U OK? Day 2024 is a reminder that checking in on someone could change, or even save, their life. Let’s make our workplaces environments where everyone feels safe to ask and answer that crucial question. To learn more about occupational stress and its effects on employee health, check out our detailed insights here.
