Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.

47,612Members
1,358,869Posts
1,400,000Visitors

R U Ok? is a trigger for me.

MaryMahemSenior Contributor11 Sept 2017, 11:44 pm AEST

R U Ok? is a trigger for me.

Does anyone else get angry or stressed with days like R U Ok and mental health week?

I find the people who promote these days the most have absolutely no empathy in a personal situation but love to talk about how important these days or weeks are in a public forum.

Our work is "celebrating" R U Ok and if anyone else asks me to buy a mug or bring a plate I might actually melt down publically instead of in the privacy of my car on the way home.

Not once has anyone asked me if I'm okay even when I have taken great courage to confess my stress or anguish, ask for help or when it is obvious that I am struggling. This is at work or in my private life. It's like I'm invisible or totally without value. I can say I'm feeling really unwell and I think I need to go back into hospital and it's like I'm talking about a new brand of shampoo - totally meaningless.

For years I have looked out for others and asked that question. I would love someday for someone to sincerely ask me, IRL.

So, like Lifeline who I find damaging rather than helpful, R U Ok is great for other people, but for me it is another reminder of my place in the world.

13 replies

11 - 13 of 13

1 2

In response to: R U Ok? is a trigger for me.

MaryMahemSenior Contributor12 Sept 2017, 8:48 pm AEST

Re: R U Ok? is a trigger for me.

Thanks everyone for your really thoughtful and expressive replies. I was obviously a bit down and stressed when i posted but am feeling far less alone today. Thanks.

In response to: R U Ok? is a trigger for me.

MaryMahemSenior Contributor12 Sept 2017, 8:51 pm AEST

Re: R U Ok? is a trigger for me.

I am really sorry people have been making light of this at your work. I think it's all too common with people who haven't been exposed to mental illness. I keep quiet too.

In response to: R U Ok? is a trigger for me.

BleedsGoldNew Contributor09 Sept 2026, 12:59 am AEST

Re: R U Ok? is a trigger for me.

Yes, it’s a trigger. I’m not ok and it seems like a cruel joke. There is very little to celebrate as getting adequate support and appropriate therapy for poor mental health is not accessible as it’s unaffordable. I’m not going to work on this day as I cannot pretend anymore.

11 - 13 of 13

1 2