This September, mental health clinicians are urging Australians to ask “R U OK?” every day.

The national R U OK? Awareness Day taking place on September 10, encourages Australians to make checking in part of everyday conversation. This push comes as mental health clinicians view the growing pressures of social media and its impact on mental health.

A 2026 report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found 22 per cent of Australians aged 16–85 have been affected by a mental health disorder in the past year.

Mental health clinician Jennifer Brown said younger individuals’ mental health will often be impacted by social media.

“We’re seeing increases of anxiety and depression. Most of this is fueled by social media. Young people and children are getting information about other people’s lives that aren’t real and it makes them form beliefs about what kind of things are valuable,” she said.

Ms Brown said that it is important for Australians to understand that it’s OK not to be OK, especially when they are struggling.

“In fact, a lot of the time many of us are not OK and that is a normal part of life, but when we are not OK everyday of our lives, that is when it becomes a concern,” she said.

A 2025 R U OK study reported nine in 10 Australians found being asked if they were OK made them feel cared for, grateful and supported.

Curtin University senior wellbeing advisor Leila Rahimtulla said the prevalence of social media is contributing to mental health impacts in modern environments.

“We’re seeing a new stream of mental health concerns, with the prevalence of social media, a lot of younger people are experiencing these kinds of concerns earlier. So, if someone is not OK, it’s important to talk about these issues in daily life,” she said.

Ms Rahimtulla said in future of R U OK Day should focus on improving mental health awareness and skills on how to have a conversation.  

“I think it’s just about practicing having conversations. Can we get better? Mental health awareness is growing, but funding, policy changes and support within the health system need to grow with it.”

This year R U OK? Day is reminding Australians that mental health conversations should not be limited to just one day. With clinicians calling for greater awareness, the message remains simple: It’s OK to have conversations about not being OK, in everyday life.

If you or someone you know needs support with mental health contact

Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636