Aussies are being urged to ask people if they "really" are okay today, amid ongoing lockdowns for millions.
R U OK? Day will see many events take place virtually because of ongoing lockdowns in New South Wales, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory.
But R U OK? Day bosses said asking somebody the question about somebody's mental health shouldn't be a token effort.
READ MORE: How to take care of your mental health in COVID-19 lockdown
"Don't wait until someone is visibly distressed or in crisis before you ask. If you ask them in a genuine way, your support can make a difference whatever they are facing," R U OK? CEO Katherine Newton said.
"The ups and downs of life can affect each of us differently.
"Sometimes it won't be obvious that someone is struggling, but having the support of family, friends and close colleagues can help us better navigate the challenges that come our way.
"In a time when so many of us are feeling fatigued by the pandemic, we want to remind and reassure Australians that there is something we can all do to support those in our world, and as those closest to them we are often in a position to do so."
Where to get help
The R U OK? Day website has a lot of tips on how to help others if they admit they're struggling – or if you're finding things tough yourself.
Other organisations are also offering plenty of help.
Beyond Blue has a 24-hour Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service.
READ MORE: How to take care of your mental health in COVID-19 lockdown
A call to 1800 512 348 will help you get tips and strategies for support from counsellors as well as referrals to other services if needed.
Help can also be accessed online at coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au.
While Lifeline is seeing some of the busiest days in its history, it is also there to give support either online or on 13 11 14.
Black Dog Institute also has resources for people as well as employers and medics, while there are dedicated services for younger people.
READ MORE: Spike in children suffering mental health issues in Victoria
They include ReachOut, which provides tools and support to help young people with everyday issues and tough times, and Kids Helpline on 1800 55 18 00, a 24-hour telephone counselling support line for children and young people from five to 25.
GPs can also help, with extra subsidised therapy sessions on offer amid the pandemic.
For immediate assistance you can also contact:
- Domestic Violence Line – 1800 65 64 63
- 1800RESPECT – 1800 73 77 32
- Suicide Callback Service – 1300 65 94 67
- If you are in an emergency, or at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, please contact emergency services on Triple Zero (000).
- NSW Domestic Violence Line – 1800 65 64 63 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)
How to help yourself
If you feel you don't need to use one of the charity services, there are ways you can help cope with tough times, especially during lockdown.
READ MORE: Lifeline's three busiest days on record have all been this month
NSW Chief Psychiatrist Dr Murray Wright recently offered some simple tips.
With normal routines thrown into chaos with the closure of most workplaces and social outlets, Dr Wright has recommended trying to keep some structure.
Regular daily exercise – such as walking, running or gardening – can provide a sense of routine during lockdown, he said.
Dr Wright said it was also important to have regular contact with your loved ones to talk about how you are coping.
READ MORE: Victorians more concerned about mental health impacts of lockdown than virus
He also said monitoring things like your diet, your sleep and your alcohol intake can help.
And he encouraged people to set goals every day, however small, and review them.
