While others were asking the question, R U OK? of their colleagues, family and friends, residents at The Brighton Retirement Village Croydon were learning about the importance of good mental health over morning tea.
Enthusiastic residents learned strategies to initiate the often-difficult conversation of asking if someone is okay, and were reminded of the importance of listening in.
“Mental health is something that affects us all and is now a subject of everyday life and work and something not to be feared or hidden,” said The Brighton’s Village Manager, Sarita Graham.
A PowerPoint presentation from the R U OK? website was shown to an engaged audience with each resident receiving an R U OK? pack filled with specially designed resources for older people, including a tea bag to help start a conversation.
Lessons learned from the presentation included the idea that it is okay not to have all the answers, providing a safe environment to just listen is equally important, as is, checking in on your own mental health.
“The Brighton is a community of loving and caring individuals who are willing to help each other as we traverse the ups and downs of life and the many challenges it brings in retirement living.”
“I am sure this event is challenging the way we all think about mental health, and this is a good thing too,” Sarita said.
In innovative style, Macquarie Care Centre Bathurst celebrated R U OK? Day a la Old People’s Home for Four Year Olds… and Teenagers!
Big yellow banners were placed outside of the home and both pre-school and high school students were invited to write messages of support for the residents. The occasion was met with great enthusiasm from both parties.
Bringing attention to the serious subject of mental health has helped to destigmatize this sensitive topic and has encouraged more to have the conversation. Well done to both The Brighton and Macquarie Care Centre Bathurst!
Five tips to help others with their mental health
Ask R U OK? in comfortable surroundings
Your mental health is important. Some days are better than others and we all need a helping hand from time to time. If you need someone to talk to, reach out to:
Your mental health is important. Some days are better than others and we all need a helping hand from time to time. If you need someone to talk to, reach out to:
Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyondblue 1300 224 636
September 13, 2023
Residential Aged Care, Home Care Services, Retirement Living, CHL
R U OK Day reminds us to reach out and check in with others who may not be doing so well, particularly, the socially isolated. Find out how McQuoin Park’s Coordinator of Health and Wellness, Niall Heaney, is helping to raise his clients’ heart rate and mood at the same time.
