In today’s fast-paced world, the pressures of study, work and family responsibilities can leave little room to talk openly about our emotional wellbeing. Many people carry their worries quietly, choosing to cope on their own rather than share what they are going through. As a result, mental health remains an important issue that is often overlooked, despite its impact on individuals, families and communities.
In Australia, the phrase “R U OK?” has become a familiar reminder of the importance of checking in on one another. The message is simple: a genuine “Are you okay?” can open the door to an important conversation. For someone going through a difficult time, that small act of reaching out may be the first step towards sharing their concerns and seeking support.
What many people may not realise is that R U OK? is also the name of a national suicide prevention and mental wellbeing promotion organisation. Since launching the H-Line Non-Crisis Hotline in 2021, CASS has encouraged multicultural community members to speak up when facing stress, anxiety or emotional difficulties, rather than struggling in silence.
This year, CASS partnered with R U OK? to further support the mental wellbeing of the Chinese community. Together, we hosted four Chinese-language co-design workshops, bringing together community members with lived experience from diverse backgrounds to discuss how mental health support can be made more accessible and relevant for those who need it most.
One of our workshop organisers, Robin from Community Social Support Services unit, shared some insights from the workshops. “The aim wasn’t for experts to conduct one way communication and tell people what they should do,” she said. “We wanted to create a space where people of different ages, backgrounds and life experiences could speak openly about the pressures they face, the challenges they have experienced, and the kinds of support they believe would make a difference.”
Robin continued, “The workshops brought together a diverse group of participants, including international students, migrants, professionals and family carers. Sitting around the same table, they listened to one another, shared their experiences and explored practical ways to encourage supportive conversations within the community.”
According to Robin, representatives from R U OK? welcomed the community engagement and the opportunity to hear directly from members of our Chinese community.
“They heard about the pressures that people don't often talk about publicly, the emotional struggles that can be difficult to express, and the unique challenges that people from multicultural communities may face when seeking support. These conversations provided valuable insights that can help shape future programs and make mental health initiatives more relevant and accessible for multicultural communities.”
One of our team members shared that many participants reflected deeply on the experience during the workshops. Some shared that in Chinese culture, people often endure hardships quietly and carry burdens on their own—even under intense study or work pressures—while neglecting their mental health.
The series of workshop also left a strong impression on participants. “Many commented that Chinese community are often taught to work hard, preserve, and hold all problems in,” Robin said. “Even when facing significant pressures from study, work or family life, they may put their own mental wellbeing last. Participants felt that the workshops challenged the idea that talking about emotions is a sign of weakness, and showed that the warmth of supporting one another can be a natural part of everyday life. They expressed their hope that similar programs would continue to be offered across the community, helping more people feel comfortable seeking help when needed.”
A kind word or friendly greeting can go a long way in bringing people together. It can help those who are feeling isolated know that they are seen, heard and supported. Looking ahead, we hope to continue delivering mental health awareness initiatives across diverse multicultural communities, contributing to a more inclusive and connected society.