Asking RUOK?

An Australian Story

In 1995 Barry Larkin ended his life but his suicide left his family and friends in grief and guilt.

In 2009, Barry’s son Gavin Larkin came up with a question both to honour his father’s life and to protect other families from the pain he and his family endured. The question:

“Are you OK?”

A documentary was made but Gavin felt a national campaign was needed and from this, RUOK? was born.

The 10 September 2020 is RUOK? Day this year. The date is also World Suicide Prevention Day which focuses further attention on the vital role each one of us can play in suicide prevention efforts.

RUOK? Day calls us to connect and check in with each other often, to think about someone other than ourselves who might be struggling.

RUOK? Day reminds us of the value of a question which, like serving a tennis ball, invites a response.

RUOK? reminds us that a conversation could change a life especially if we ask and then wait long enough and lovingly enough to hear the response.

This year’s theme is ‘There’s more to say after RUOK?’ which means learning to go deeper and stay longer with a person.

Asking RUOK? is not just for professionals. It’s something that everyone of us can ask.

Asking RUOK? today may seem like we are merely responding to a campaign. Asking RUOK? on many days of the year shows that we are responding out of concern and with deep compassion.

Geoff Pound

geoffpound@gmail.com