“But people with depression … it’s not like they have a sign on their head. You actually could be talking to someone who has been fighting suicidal thoughts for months. But they’ve got a smile on their face, that’s their default. You just don’t know who you’re actually talking to.

This RU OK? Day (September 8), TV and radio personality Emma Mullings says it’s one thing to ask whether someone is OK, but it’s quite another to actually listen to the answer.

“I was working at a major network when I was in the middle of the worst depression. And I remember RU OK? Day. I remember it happening. I remember seeing all over social media, ‘RU OK?’ but there wasn’t actually any room for an answer. So maybe they did [ask] but it was kind of like a joke,” she told Eternity. 

“But people with depression … it’s not like they have a sign on their head. You actually could be talking to someone who has been fighting suicidal thoughts for months. But they’ve got a smile on their face, that’s their default. You just don’t know who you’re actually talking to.

“So, I think RU OK? is an important question to ask. But even more important is: listen to the answer and give someone an opportunity to answer in a safe place.”

Watch our full interview with Emma:

If you or someone you know needs help, call:

Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467