SEPTEMBER 2026 - R U OK? Looking Out for Your Mates
Why this matters
We usually focus on physical safety – heights, machinery, traffic, weather. But looking out for each other goes further than that. Long days, physical demands, injuries, financial pressure and things going on outside work can all take a toll. If a mate doesn't seem themselves, trust your instinct and check in – you don't need all the answers, just ask
https://www.ruok.org.au/tradies
the 4 steps to a conversation
R U OK? recommends four simple steps. You don't need to be a counsellor, just a mate who asks:
Ask – R U OK? Pick a good time, be relaxed, and mention what you've noticed (e.g. 'you seem quieter than usual').
Listen – with an open mind. Don't interrupt or judge; give them time and take what they say seriously.
Encourage action – ask what's helped before. If it's been more than two weeks, encourage them to see a GP or call a support line.
Check in – follow up in a few days. 'I've been thinking of you, how are you going?' Staying in touch matters
Signs to look out for & how to respond
Behaviour changes
Withdrawn, agitated or uncharacteristically quiet.
Mention what you’ve noticed and ask how they’re going. Pick a quiet moment, away from the crew.
Physical signs
Tired, run down, or a change in appearance or habits.
Check in without making it a big deal – “You right? You seem wrecked lately.” This opens the door without pressure.
What they say
Take it seriously, even if it’s said lightly. Ask a direct follow-up question and really listen to the answer.
Joking about not coping, or mentioning money or personal stress, can also be a sign that something isn’t right.
Missing the mark
Late, absent, or performance or safety slipping.
Don’t assume it’s laziness – ask if everything’s OK before raising performance.
If someone needs urgent support
They mention suicide or self-harm
Take it seriously – ask directly and don’t leave them alone. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If there’s immediate danger, call 000.
Immediate risk to life
Call 000 immediately. Stay with them if it’s safe to do so, and remove any obvious means of harm.
They tell you they’re not OK
Listen without judgement, thank them for telling you, and encourage them to see their GP, EAP or a support line.
You’re worried but they say they’re ‘fine’
Trust your instinct. Mention the specific changes you’ve noticed and check in again in a day or two.
You’re not confident having the conversation
You don’t have to do this alone – loop in a supervisor, HR or the EAP.
It’s after hours or you’re offsite
Don’t wait for the next shift – call or text, and let your supervisor know if you’re worried.
Emergency: 000 | Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7) | Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Talk it through
What signs might tell you a mate isn’t themselves?
What can make it difficult to ask if they’re OK?
When and where is a good time to have the conversation?
What could you do if they tell you they’re not OK?
Where could you help them find support?
Remember
You don’t need to be a counsellor or have the perfect words. If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instinct, ask the question, and listen. Looking out for your mates is something we can all do.