Northern Health is showing its commitment to supporting the psychological health and wellbeing of all staff on R U OK? Day on Thursday.
R U OK? Day is a national day of action to remind everyone that every day is the day to ask ‘are you okay?’ and to start meaningful conversations whenever they spot signs that someone they care about might be struggling.
The theme ‘I’m here to hear’ encourages people to not only ask ‘are you okay?’, but to genuinely listen and make sure they are giving their friend, colleague, family member or loved one the right environment to open up when experiencing tough times.
Northern Health people and culture executive director Michelle Fenwick expressed the importance of people being ‘here to hear’.
“This year R U OK? Day is a really special day, especially given the last three to four years we have had, not just here at Northern Health, but across the country, and the world,” she said.
“Take the time to ask the question and sit down with either family, colleagues and alike, to really be here to hear the response.”
Northern Health people and culture senior psychologist Casey O’Brien said supportive conversations were so important in maintaining the wellbeing of the people.
“Remember that there are many ways we can support each other, and you don’t need to have counselling skills or training to have a powerful impact on someone’s day,” she said.
“Kindness and support can come from a corridor check-in, sitting in silence together after a difficult event, or checking in on a colleague who has been having a hard time at home.”
Northern Health has multiple support systems, programs and initiatives in place to support their staff and community, including the Northern Health Peer Support Program.
The program was established in July 2022 and provides staff with brief, practical and emotional support from fellow Northern Health peers.
Trained and compassionate Northern Health peer supporters work alongside staff in need of a chat, guidance or support.
Peer supporters have assisted staff with a range of concerns including ongoing stress, career and family concerns and work-life balance.
“The Peer Support Program is driven by our values of safe, kind and together,” Ms O’Brien said.
“Our peer supporters come from diverse backgrounds, are easy to access, and understand what it is like to work at Northern Health. They are here to hear when you need them.”
