Each year, on the second Thursday of September, Australia gets behind R U OK? Day, a brilliant and important mental health initiative. The purpose of the day is to encourage people to check in on their loved ones and have honest conversations about mental health. However, in my experience, asking the question "R U OK?" tends to elicit one of two responses - yes or no. It's a closed question that can lead to a black-or-white answer.
Mental health isn't always black and white. It's a spectrum, and people can experience a wide range of emotions, thoughts, and feelings. That's why it's important to ask open-ended questions that can help to expand a conversation and explore the full emotional spectrum in ourselves and others.
Here are some open-ended questions that might help to start a conversation this R U OK? Day and every day:
- How R U feeling?
- If emotions were colors, what "emotion color" R U?
- Why R U experiencing this color?
- Where R U getting your emotional support?
- When R U free for another chat?
Asking open-ended questions like these can help to create a safe space for people to share their thoughts and feelings. It can also help to build trust and strengthen relationships.
In conclusion, R U OK? Day is an important initiative that aims to raise awareness about mental health and encourage people to have honest conversations. However, it's essential to remember that mental health isn't always black and white, and asking open-ended questions can help to explore the full emotional spectrum in ourselves and others. Let's stay curious and continue to support each other's mental well-being.
