Studying in a new country can be exciting, but it can also feel really lonely and hard. You might be getting used to a new education system, trying to make new friends, juggling finances or simply getting used to being far from home.
That's one reason initiatives that encourage people to check in with each other can be particularly valuable for students.
R U OK? Day is an Australian national day of action focused on encouraging meaningful conversations about mental health and wellbeing. It is held on the second Thursday of September each year. In 2026, R U OK? Day falls on Thursday 10 September.
What does ‘R U OK?’ actually mean?
‘R U OK?’ stands for ‘Are you okay?’ The idea behind it is really simple. Basically, if someone is in your thoughts, reach out and ask them how they’re going. And rather than giving or hearing a one-word answer and moving on with your day, R U OK? Day encourages us to listen and have an actual conversation.
RUOK? suggests a simple 4-step process for these conversations:
- Ask R U OK?
- Listen
- Encourage action
- Check in
You don't need to be a mental health professional to have a supportive conversation. Sometimes, simply giving someone the opportunity to talk can help them feel less alone. But at the same time, it’s important to remember that you aren't responsible for solving someone else's problems. If a friend needs professional help, you can encourage them to speak with a university counsellor, GP or another appropriate service.
How can students participate?
One of the easiest ways to get involved is to just check in with someone you care about.
Pick a friend (or friends) and ask them how they’re going, send a message to someone from back home that you haven’t spoken to recently, or you can even ask yourself the question ‘Am I OK?’ and see where it leads.
Many Australian universities will also mark the day with events and activities designed to encourage social connection and wellbeing amongst students. Check if your uni is doing anything, and if they’re not, you could get involved with setting up an event (if not this year, then next year)!
R U OK? Day activities
Activities can be as simple or creative as you like. Universities and community organisations often host morning teas, barbecues, games, wellness activities, discussion groups, sporting events or "wear yellow" days.
For example, the University of Canberra is holding an R U OK? Day event featuring games, activities and free food for students. The University of Tasmania is holding a morning tea with free muffins and savouries to encourage staff and students to catch up for a chat.
If your university isn't running an event, you can create your own. R U OK? provides free resources for schools, workplaces and community groups, including posters, conversation guides, activity ideas and digital resources.
Most importantly, R U OK? isn't only about one day of the year. The organisation encourages people to Ask R U OK? Any Day.
