Initiate a life-saving conversation on R U OK? Day

September 14 is R U OK? Day and the organisation is encouraging Australians to reach out and start a potentially life saving conversation with a friend who might need it.

R U Ok? community ambassador Paul Turner understands first-hand how important it is to have an authentic conversation with someone close who takes the time to notice and listen

The 70-year-old said he has had suicidal thoughts since he was a teenager.

"In the last four years, I had a turnaround experience where someone asked me, in essence, 'are you OK?' and it gave me permission to reflect on what had been going on in my life," he said.

"Now I don't hear those thoughts in my mind. I don't experience those thoughts anymore and I am forever grateful that I was able to move through that."

Mr Turner is proof conversations can change lives, and a number of resources are available to help empower people with the tools and confidence to reach out to someone in need.

Free Your Natter Matters resources such as a conversation guide and activity book can give a person the tools and confidence to initiate a potentially lifesaving conversation and are available on the R U OK? website.

R U OK? chief executive Katherine Newton said the most important thing when initiating a conversation with someone in need is to really mean it.

"If you really care and want to hear an honest answer, be genuine with your ask, make space to listen and let the person know you're sticking around for whatever comes next," she said.

She said the most constructive conversations usually occur when trust has been built over time, the two people are familiar with each other's routines and behaviours, and know what's going on in each other's lives.

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