Teachers’ Day Meets RUOK Day

What is RUOK Day?

September 10th this year was a special day! It was not only teachers' day, but also RUOK (are you OK) Day. On this day, all the teachers received a carnation from the students and enjoyed dessert and drinks. In addition, on this day at Dulwich International High School Suzhou, we encourage everyone to ask people around them, "are you ok?". RUOK day is also the World Suicide Prevention Day, which aims to promote caring for everyone around you by promoting their physical and mental health.

RUOK? is an Australia non-profit suicide prevention organization, founded in 2009. The RUOK? The day is the 2nd Thursday each September during which, people are encouraged to have meaningful contact with those around them and start a conversation with anyone who may be struggling with life.

This year, our pastoral team thought that we could carry out some activities to acknowledge the RUOK? Day and to pass on the information that: ”It’s okay not to be okay”. We held assembly for our Year 12 Students in order to help embed the idea of RUOK Day, and the signs that someone might be not okay, as well as how to ask R U OK? The tutors had tutor time activities with students, creating a safe and supportive environment in their classrooms. We also used the lunch time to promote the RUOK? Day.

There are four steps to having an RUOK? conversation. The first is to ask “R U OK?”, the second is to listen with an open mind, the third step is to encourage actions, and the last step is to check in. Sometimes a small conversation can make big changes. We wish to encourage all students and staff to show care towards each other.