09/09/2026
R U OK? Day.
It's a question that takes seconds to ask. For someone in emergency services, it might take a lot longer to answer honestly.
Our sector attracts people who are trained to hold it together under pressure. Who run toward the things others run from. Who debrief, log off, and come back the next shift ready to do it again. That resilience is a strength — and it can also make it harder to ask for help.
One in three first responders experience high or very high psychological distress. Behind that statistic are people who are colleagues, teammates, leaders, and friends.
Today, we're asking you to check in. Not just with the people who look like they're struggling — but with the ones who look fine. Because sometimes they're the ones who need it most.
R U OK?
If you or someone you know is struggling, Fortem Australia provides free, confidential mental health support for first responders and their families: fortemaustralia.org.au
Who in your life are you going to check in with today? Sometimes saying it out loud is the first step. 👇
