Dear colleagues,

It’s hard to avoid seeing or hearing about the huge impact that news reporting surrounding COVID-19 and other world issues is having on ourselves and on those around us. R U OK’s national day of action reminds us that every day is the day to ask our friends, families, and colleagues if they’re OK and to check in with our own well-being.

I recently came across statistics that I wanted to share with you that showed that participants who were exposed to the R U OK?Day campaign from 2014 – 2017, were almost six times more likely to reach out to someone who might be experiencing personal difficulties than those who weren’t exposed to the campaign.

This year’s RUOK? Day theme is prompting us to take an extra step today and ask our colleagues if they’re REALLY ok (“Are you REALLY OK?”). Take a moment today to ask your colleagues and be prepared to guide them if they need to the staff support services that I’ve listed below.

It is just as important to ask yourself the question as well (“Am I REALLY ok?”). It can be easy for us to say we’re fine and to wear a brave face when dealing with snap lockdowns and changing schedules but I hope that you can take the time today to reflect inwardly and reach out for support if you need it. Remember that you are not alone and that it is OK to ask for help, we all need support.

Below I have listed the numerous supports that exist for staff and how to access them as needed, and if none of them work for you I am happy to take a call on 3647 9526.

Hoping you can find the time today to ask colleagues and loved ones and make it a good week.

Kind regards,

Mark

Metro North information

Staff Wellness Portal | Metro North Hospital and Health Service

COVID-19 – Extranet (health.qld.gov.au)

Each other (collegiate support – based on understanding)

Peers Responders programs – across all Metro North facilities
Peer Responder Program Metro North (health.qld.gov.au)

RUOK – training and resources
R U OK | News | Metro North HHS (health.qld.gov.au)

Staff Psychology services – MNStaffPsychology@health.qld.gov.au, (07)3647 9673

Employee Assistance program (currently Benestar)
Employee assistance program | Metro North HHS (health.qld.gov.au) –1300 360 364

GP – for referral to private psychology services

Beyond Blue – Covid support number 1800 512 348
Supporting you through the Coronavirus pandemic – Beyond Blue

Lifeline
Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 – Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention