As many organisations this week undertake RU OK? Day activities, it is important to reflect on what steps your business can take to reduce stress and improve mental health in the workplace.

RU OK? Day, which has its National Day of Action today on Thursday 12 September, is a timely reminder of the obligations now existing in all jurisdictions in Australia to manage the risks of psychosocial hazards.

RU OK? is a charity aimed at raising awareness of the risk of suicide and to assist in its prevention. 

The underlying theme to the RU OK? campaign is that by asking that simple question, you build trust such that a conversation can start what may ultimately lead to a vulnerable person seeking assistance and therefore prevent the prospect of suicide. 

The question of whether someone is ok acknowledges that in many cases, people who are suffering stress often feel that they are a burden to others and don’t feel connected to others. 

The campaign therefore focuses on trying to improve the feeling of connection between people by inspiring others to ask “are you ok?” and then listening to the answer.  

Campaigns like RU OK? Day can be a very useful way to promote health and well-being in your workplace as well as highlight the importance of managing the risks of psychosocial harm.

Every workplace is at some level of risk of its workers developing mental health issues, particularly if the workplace involves:

• job insecurity or lack of role clarity;
• long working hours;
• bullying;
• poor communication or poor organisational processes; or
• high levels of pressure.

To make the most out of a campaign on suicide prevention though, it is important to think about how your organisation approaches mental health and stress overall, and not just a focus on it for one day of the year. 

It is important that you have in place processes in your organisation that aim to promote a supportive work environment that is aimed at reducing stress and eliminating bullying. 

The code of practice or guidance material available from the safety regulators in all jurisdictions on managing psychosocial hazards in the workplace offer a good framework for your organisation. You can also refer to the Health & Safety Handbook chapter, Psychosocial hazards, for advice.