Thursday, 10 September 2026, is R U OK? Day, Australia’s national day of action encouraging people to check in with those around them and start meaningful conversations; this year’s message is “Ask R U OK? Any Day”, reminding us that people experience life’s ups and downs every day, not just on one particular day of the year

Sometimes, a simple “Are you OK?” can open the door to a conversation that someone may have been waiting for, and according to R U OK?’s 2026 research, 9 in 10 people who are asked report feeling grateful, cared for and supported, while one in four people may hesitate to ask even when they suspect someone is struggling

Why checking in matters

For people living with disability, meaningful connection can be particularly important because wellbeing is not only about physical health or receiving practical support; it is also about belonging, being heard, having trusted relationships and knowing that someone genuinely cares.

A person may not always say when something is wrong, and changes in mood, behaviour, communication or routine can sometimes be signs that someone may need a little extra support; that is why taking the time to notice, ask and listen can make a meaningful difference.

How to have the conversation

You do not need to be a mental health expert to start a genuine conversation; you can begin by noticing a change, asking how someone is going, choosing a comfortable time and place, listening without judgement and continuing to check in rather than expecting one conversation to solve everything

The most important thing is to listen and be present, rather than immediately trying to fix the situation; sometimes knowing that someone is willing to sit beside you, hear you and support you can be incredibly valuable.

Connection is part of good support

At Nurse Assist 24/7, we believe support should recognise the whole person; whether someone is receiving disability support, nursing care, support coordination, community participation or assistance with daily living, feeling respected, included and connected matters.

R U OK? Day provides an opportunity to think beyond the services we provide and remember the human connection behind every person we support; a conversation during a community outing, a check-in during a support visit or simply asking someone how their day is going can help create an environment where people feel seen and valued.

Ask R U OK? Any Day

The message from R U OK? is simple: if someone is on your mind, trust your instinct and start the conversation

You do not have to wait for R U OK? Day, and you do not need the perfect words; ask, listen, be there and keep checking in, because meaningful conversations can help build trust and remind people that they do not have to face life’s difficult moments alone

A conversation could change a life.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 000; R U OK? also recommends seeking appropriate professional support when someone needs more help than a conversation alone can provide