R U OK? Celebrates 10th anniversary with TVCs and touring events targeting suicide prevention.
In light of R U OK?'s 10th anniversary, the suicide awareness organisation has launched its latest campaign that develops on the company's four-step process for suicide prevention with the launch of a new TVC and fleet of 'Conservation Convoys.'
The R U OK? campaign has taken off across Australia since its launch in 2008, gaining country-wide recognition since, with 81% of Australians stating they've asked 'R U OK?' in the last 12 months.
Inspired by Julian Leeser's maiden parliamentary speech in memory of his father who took his own life, the TVC called 'Signs' focuses on the warning signs of suicide that can be easily overlooked,
The ad follows a day in a few people's lives where they act slightly out of character. One man does not greet the postman like he has every day for several years, another suddenly donates all of his records after a lifetime of collecting. The ad is then closed with the famous call-to-action, that if you see the signs, ask, “are you ok?”
“Our TVC and video series have been created to educate the public to look for the more subtle signs,” brand and communications manager Anastasia Symons says.
“We want intervention to happen as early as possible and for people to know when to ask the big question and implement our four-step approach.”
The R U OK? nonprofit strives to provide a practical framework for suicide prevention by establishing its very own four-step approach – ask, 'are you OK?,' listen, encourage action, and check in.
Alongside the TVC, this year's campaign has adapted the four steps into four 'conversation convoys' over the course of a 6 week Australian-wide tour.
The convoys will reach 25 communities across Australia, hosting a number of events to promote and educate, ending in Sydney on R U OK? Day, September 13.
While on the road, events will be hosted by a number of diverse community members including NRL players who will open the conversation for their team and others.
“We're excited to be entering our 10th year,” says Symons. “What started as an initiative is now an organisation on the ground, providing resources across Australia. We may be celebrating our 10th R U OK? Day, but reaching out is something that you can do and that you have to do everyday of the year.”
