Qualified counsellor and life coach Brooke Wilson offers wise advice not only on R U OK? Day, but any day of the year.
When people are not feeling okay, they are often struggling to make decisions, do things they would normally enjoy, feel exhausted or overwhelmed, alone and disconnected.
Asking if someone feels okay makes them feel seen, heard, connected, important, worthy, grateful or calm.
I have had many clients come to me when they are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, exhausted, isolated and lacking confidence.
Their stories vary, so many things can get people to this point, there is no right or wrong.
They all did talk to someone, but the list below also helped them to start to feel okay:
Going to bed early and creating a nighttime routine
Practising gratitude
Journaling
Asking for help
Mindfulness / meditation
Setting up a simple morning routine
Walking / gentle exercise
Changing mindset / re-framing thoughts
If you are not feeling okay, please reach out to a loved one or professional.
It might feel scary at first but that’s normal and okay.
It can be hard to talk about feelings, but trust the other person has got you and just start with “I am not okay”.
I have no doubt you will start to feel okay if you do.
You are worthy and your feelings matter.
