Thursday 11 September is R U OK?Day, a national day of action that reminds us all to stay connected and have meaningful conversations. The message is simple but powerful: Ask R U OK? Any Day, because life happens every day.
At Palliative Care NSW, we would like to highlight the importance of checking in with those who may be experiencing grief and loss.
Why it matters
Grief and loss touch every one of us at some stage in life. Whether through the death of a loved one, a sudden illness, or another life-changing event, grief can feel overwhelming and isolating. Too often, friends and family hesitate to reach out, unsure of what to say or worried about saying the wrong thing.
But research from R U OK? shows that people who are regularly asked “Are you OK?” report stronger wellbeing, and a third of Australians say they’ve been asking others more often over the past year. It’s a reminder that the smallest gestures of care can have a profound impact.
Supporting someone through grief
You don’t need to have all the answers. What matters is being there, consistently and with compassion. R U OK? has worked with Griefline to develop simple tips for supporting someone who is grieving:
- Make time. A quiet chat over coffee or a quick phone call can mean a lot.
- Be present. Sometimes silence and listening are more powerful than advice.
- Acknowledge their loss. Say their loved one’s name and honour their memory.
- Take their lead. Follow their cues on how much—or how little—they want to share.
- Offer practical support. Everyday help with meals, errands, or childcare can ease the load.
- Keep checking in. Grief doesn’t end after the funeral. Ongoing care matters.
You can find more resources and conversation tips in the R U OK? guide to supporting someone through grief and loss.
Stories of strength through connection
Personal stories remind us of the power of simple check-ins:
- When Lach lost his wife suddenly, leaving him to raise their two toddlers, it was the ongoing support of family and friends that kept him going. “What’s helped me the most is the people who continue to check in and let us know we’re not alone,” he says. Read Lach’s story ›
- R U OK? Community Ambassadors Tracey and Carli each navigated deeply personal journeys of grief, finding comfort in the people who reached out with care. Read more ›
Together, we can make a difference
At Palliative Care NSW, we encourage and support people to talk openly and honestly about life, death, grief, and loss.
Whether you are joining a Community Conversation, PalliLEARN or meeting us at a community event, Palliative Care NSW staff are always available to talk to. R U OK?Day reminds us that while we can’t take away someone’s pain, we can walk alongside them.
Learn more at R U OK? Life Happens.