Post by Consortium for the Prevention of Suicide

Ask Twice: Creating Space for Real Conversations as we hear from Adam Day, a Trustee for the Consortium for the Prevention of Suicide. When someone is asked, “Are you OK?” the most common answer is “I’m fine.” But research shows that often, that first response is a reflex — a way to keep things light or avoid burdening others. The Time to Change campaign found that 78% of people would say they’re fine even when struggling, but when asked a second time, they’re far more likely to open up. That simple act of asking twice can make all the difference. It signals genuine care, creates a moment of safety, and gives permission for honesty. Building these conversations into everyday life doesn’t require grand gestures — it’s about small, intentional moments: In the corridor: Pause for a few seconds longer. Make eye contact. Ask again, “Are you really OK?” In a queue: Use the waiting time to check in meaningfully. A simple “How’s your week been going, honestly?” can open a door. In wellbeing one‑to‑ones: Go beyond performance or workload. Ask open questions like “What’s been most challenging for you lately?” or “What’s helping you cope right now?” Evidence supports that the right question, asked with empathy, can change outcomes. Studies on the R U OK? The campaign shows that people exposed to its message are up to six times more likely to reach out to someone in distress. Research on workplace wellbeing check‑ins also highlights that brief, genuine conversations reduce emotional exhaustion and improve connection. Everyday interactions are opportunities to notice, to listen, and to care. Asking twice isn’t intrusive — it’s an act of kindness that can save a life. Please reshare our posts. The broader our reach, the more we can help someone who is struggling today. #SuicidePrevention #MentalHealthAwareness #AskTwice #WellbeingAtWork #ConnectionMatters #ConsortiumForThePreventionOfSuicide Ian Dyson CBE QPM DL Andrew Knights Sarah Jane Cork MSyl, FinCrime, AML Ashley Fernandes CMgr FCMI, F.ISRM, FRSA, MSyI, AMBCI Úna Carney Ian Bond Alistair Sutherland QPM Imran Aziz Kathryn Cusick Russel Kerr Jason Towse Iain McCallister Fiona Walters Kelly Parish Mark Griffiths (MSc CIWFM) Helmey El-Aasar BSc, MSyl Janice McMahon Angela Dawson Christine Clark Joe Jones Amanda McCloskey Claire-Louise Wilson Scott Gough Adrian Moore MSyl Michael Goldie

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