There's more to say after R U OK?

We would also like to invite you to a Mindfulness During Uncertainty workshop hosted by the well-known mindfulness meditation company, Smiling Mind. See below for workshop details.

This year has been one of change, challenges and adjusting to a new normal and it's important for us to stay connected and support those around us.

Although we can't get together for the annual R U OK? Day, we still encourage you to get together online, or pick up the phone and have the same meaningful conversations.

CFA members are incredible at supporting one another and we know that these supportive conversations happen year-round.

R U OK? Day is just a gentle reminder to check in on those around you, and if you're not OK make sure you reach out for support.

This year's theme is 'There's more to say after R U OK?' which focuses on what to say when someone is not OK.

Sometimes these conversations might feel confronting and you might feel unsure about what to say. The most important thing is that you genuinely care and are willing to listen.

After the conversation you might encourage access to support services and check in on that person later. This conversation might change, or even save, their life.

For some more tips on having a conversation, CFA Organisational Wellbeing has developed a conversation guide which you can access on the CFA Intranet.

There is also some tips and advice on how to best support those around you on the R U OK? Website.

Join us for a Mindfulness during uncertainty workshop

CFA will be hosting a Smiling Mind Zoom session on R U OK? Day from 1pm to 2pm on Thursday 10 September.

The session will cover:

• Why we need mindfulness at a time like this
• The stress response
• Mindfulness as foundation for resilience
• Managing your thoughts and emotions effectively during Covid-19
• Responding not reacting
• Circle of concern versus circle of influence

The event is open to all CFA people but has a capacity for 1,000, so first in best dressed. The session will be recoded and placed onto the CFA intranet for those who missed out.

Click here to join the Zoom session on Thursday 10 September.

CFA Wellbeing Support Line

If you are not OK, or if you notice a change in someone you know, you can contact the CFA Wellbeing Support Line on 1800 959 232 to access free, confidential support that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Wellbeing services are available to all CFA volunteers, employees and their immediate family members.

The support services include the Member Assistance Program with Psychologists and Counsellors, Peer Support Programs, Chaplaincy Program, Let Me Know web-based app as well as other services provided by the Organisational Wellbeing team.

To view the complete range of services, visit the wellbeing page on the CFA Intranet.

There are also a number of other external professional help services:

• Lifeline - 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636
• Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467
• MensLine Australia - 1300 78 99 78