Today is R U OK? Day.
A reminder to check in on your family, friends, teammates, classmates or colleagues, not just today but everyday or when you can.
It is important to understand that you may not be prepared for what's to come after you ask someone if they are okay, and that in itself is okay, but be there to listen, encourage positive action and to continue to check in.
This simple question can start a conversation that could save a life.
The R U OK? Day website has some incredible resources to assist with prompting conversation, following up, encouraging positive action and ensuring you’re prepared to listen.
Read the Play
The Geelong Cats are committed to health and wellbeing, especially in young people and 14 years ago partnered with Read the Play who provides young people across the Geelong region with a greater understanding and awareness of youth mental health.
AFL players Mark Blicavs and Mark O’Connor along with AFLW player Danielle Higgins are proud ambassadors of the Read the Play program.
Read the Play have recently launched their online courses around youth mental health to equip Club officials and parents with the tools to support young people and their mental health.
Be Kind Online
We know that the increased use of technology during Covid-19 has led to poor behaviour online. Thanks to Simonds Homes, the Cats have put together tips on how to BeKindOnline featuring Cyber Cats ambassadors Josh Jenkins and Jordi Ivey.
These tips encourage positive behaviour online, especially across social media and educate parents and young people on how to be safer online.
Through the Cyber Cats program, the Cats have developed online resources for parents and teachers which can be found here.
