Embracing positive conversations around mental health on R U OK? Day

R U OK? Day provides a special opportunity for communities to come together and promote understanding around mental health and suicide prevention. This year, PCYC once again embraced the opportunity to check in with one another and encourage open conversations about mental well-being. Many of our team members celebrated the day by decorating their Centres and partnering with organisations in their community to promote the R U OK? Day message.

At Newton Moore High School, our Bunbury PCYC team engaged with students through a fun ball-juggling activity. Using balls of different shapes and textures, they explored how responsibilities—like school, mental health, family, and social media—can sometimes feel overwhelming. This interactive session highlighted the importance of seeking help and support when needed.

In Albany, the PCYC team celebrated the day in bright yellow outfits, sharing deliciously decorated treats, spreading joy and encouraging everyone to keep the conversation going.

Embracing community connections, Midland PCYC teamed up with local youth organisations at Governor Stirling Senior High School, creating an engaging space for staff and students to chat about mental well-being. Carnarvon PCYC also engaged with the community, spending the afternoon at the Civic Centre, enjoying games, food and meaningful talks about the power of community support.

In collaboration with organisations such as headspace and Mara Pirni, Kalgoorlie PCYC participated in the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder R U OK? Day event, bringing 25 of our safeSPACE™ participants to share experiences and engage in impactful discussions about mental health.

In the South West, Collie PCYC’s efforts were the talk of the town, as they dedicated the morning to connecting with the community by visiting local businesses and chatting with residents. The team distributed hundreds of special R U OK? ducks, adorned with necklaces crafted by young people from our safeSPACE™ program. The ducks also highlighted important resources, emphasising the message that support is always available to those in need.

PCYC is fortunate to be a part of communities filled with people from all walks of life, allowing us to share diverse perspectives and experiences. This is what makes R U OK? Day so special and helps us to ensure that meaningful conversations around mental health and well-being occur every day.