R U OK? Day 2026: The conversation matters, but so does what happens next

By Elise Bresler, Head of People and Culture and trained Mental Health First Aider  ·  10 September 2026

Thursday, 10 September marks R U OK? Day 2026, an opportunity to check in with the people around us and think about how we support mental health and wellbeing at work.

“How are you?” is probably one of the most common questions we ask at work. Most of the time, the answer is a quick “good, thanks” before we move on to deadlines, meetings and whatever else needs our attention.

Sometimes that answer is completely genuine. Sometimes it's simply easier than explaining what's really going on.

R U OK? Day rightly focuses on starting the conversation. From a workplace perspective though, asking the question is only one part of it. How we listen, respond, and follow up can shape whether someone feels comfortable opening up again.

Mental health looks different for everyone

We all have mental health, and it can change depending on what's happening at work, at home and in our lives more broadly.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics found that 21.5% of Australians aged 16-85 had experienced a mental disorder within the previous 12 months. In Western Australia, that figure was 23.1%.

Behind those numbers are people who may be managing stress, anxiety, grief, health concerns or significant changes in their lives, often without the people around them knowing.

How we look after our mental health is personal, so we asked members of the Peritas team what mental health means to them, how they look after it, and why it matters at work.

Matthew Ford, Structural Engineer

What does mental health mean to you?

Mental health to me is the ability to tackle all situations as my best self. Whether it is work, family or recreational related time and activities. I see my best self as someone who can manage my emotions to suit the situation. This does not mean avoiding negative emotions but being able to feel them without having an unfairly negative effect on others. If my mental health is a bit down, I may become more irritable and unable to handle emotions as effectively.

What are ways you care for your mental health?

Taking time to exercise, but on my own terms. I try my best to stay fit while prioritising my enjoyment of the activity, over aiming for any specific fitness goals. Completing exercise, whether strength, cycling, surfing, kayaking, running, skating, walks or hiking that lets physical movement take the lead allows me to mentally reset and reflect. Giving my mind a break is so important, as it does all the heavy lifting in my work.

What are your favourite ways Peritas supports mental health?

Balance days help move the needle closer to true work-life balance. They allow me to do things I enjoy like going away with family for a long weekend, outdoor activities on the random day that has perfect weather or a slow, easy day. They are also great for life admin, freeing up weekends for rest and recreation.

Why do you believe it's important to support mental health in the workplace?

Mental health is the barometer of culture. A team that is mentally healthy works well together, is more open to others' ideas and are happy to share the load. Good mental health fosters good things such as passion, engagement and grit in the work people do.

Shonaugh Blanchard, Senior Civil Drafter

What does mental health mean to you?

To me, it means having balance, resilience, and knowing when to take a step back and recharge.

What are ways you care for your mental health?

I make time for the things that help me relax and recharge, such as being outdoors, creating things, and spending time with people I care about. I also try to switch off from work and give myself time to rest when I need it. Staying active and focusing on the positives also helps me maintain a healthy mindset.

How do you believe mental health makes a person a stronger teammate?

When people feel mentally well, they are more likely to communicate openly, support others, and work collaboratively. Looking after our mental health helps us manage pressure and respond to challenges more positively. A team that supports each other creates a more trusting and productive workplace.

Yashved Sewnun, Structural Engineering Manager

What does mental health mean to you?

Good mental health means feeling balanced, positive, and able to deal with whatever life throws at you. For me, it's about having a good balance between work, family, friends, and making time for hobbies.

What are ways you care for your mental health?

I enjoy spending quality, focused time with family and friends. I also enjoy going to the gym, running, and playing a musical instrument, all things that help me stay active, connected, and positive.

How do you believe mental health makes a person a stronger teammate?

Good mental health helps you bring a more positive attitude and energy to the people around you. It also makes you more patient, supportive, and willing to listen, which helps build stronger relationships and a better team environment.

What are your favourite ways that Peritas supports mental health?

Peritas provide support in various ways, including a strong focus on open communication, employee assistance programs and encouragement to participate in various health and wellbeing initiatives. Things like fitness coaching and supporting activities such as the City to Surf run are great ways to encourage people to look after themselves while also bringing the team together.

We spend a significant part of our lives at work, so having a positive and supportive environment can have a big impact on our overall wellbeing. I think looking out for each other and creating an environment where people feel comfortable talking makes for a healthier and stronger team.

Why do you believe it's important to support mental health in the workplace?

We spend a large part of our lives at work, so having a supportive and respectful environment is really important. When people feel valued and supported, they are more engaged, confident, and able to do their best work. Supporting mental health also helps create a workplace where people feel comfortable speaking up before things become overwhelming.

Their responses remind us that there's no single approach to wellbeing. What helps one person may not work for another, which is why it's important to listen rather than assume what someone needs.

You don't need to have all the answers

It's natural to feel unsure about starting a conversation, particularly if you're worried about saying the wrong thing or don't know how to respond if someone says they're struggling.

You don't need special training or the perfect words to check in with someone. Often, what matters most is noticing, asking with genuine care and taking the time to listen.

R U OK? recommends 4 simple steps:

• Ask R U OK? Find a suitable moment and explain what prompted you to check in.
• Listen: Give the person your attention and allow them to share what they feel comfortable sharing.
• Encourage action: Ask what might help or whether there's someone else they'd feel comfortable speaking to.
• Check in: Follow up afterwards to see how they're going.

They may not feel ready to talk when you first ask, and that's OK. Letting them know you're there can still make a difference.

The conversation matters, but so does what happens next

Asking “R U OK?” can open an important conversation. How we respond can influence whether someone feels heard, supported and comfortable speaking honestly again.

For managers and colleagues, a thoughtful response might include:

• Giving them time to speak without feeling the need to offer an immediate solution
• Asking what support would be useful rather than making assumptions
• Knowing what professional support options are available
• Agreeing on whether and when to check in again
• Respecting their privacy
• Where appropriate, considering whether any practical support at work might help

Every person and situation will be different. Managers and colleagues aren't expected to act as mental health professionals. Their role is to respond with care, understand what the person might need and help them work out an appropriate next step.

At Peritas, having a trained Mental Health First Aider gives our people another point of support. As Peritas' Mental Health First Aider, my role is to provide initial support and help someone connect with professional care where needed.

R U OK? Day gives us a valuable reason to ask the question. What builds trust over time is showing that we're also prepared to listen to, and thoughtfully respond to the answer.

For guidance on starting a conversation or finding professional support, visit R U OK?. Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14. If life is in immediate danger, call 000.