Summer is upon us and many are feeling some of the weight from the past few COVID years slipping away with the warmth of the sunshine. However, for many, concerns about post COVID have given way to geopolitical instabilities, rising cost of living and a looming threat of extreme weather over the summer period. It isn't safe to assume that everyone around us has 'coping'. We're often told that staying informed is a good thing, Information overload can be extremely triggering in an almost infinitely connected modern world. Manage your media and social media inputs and take the time to cross check. It's OK to disconnect for periods too and make time to 'smell the roses'.

Falling victim to assumption making is a risk for us all. Be mindful of 'ducks on still ponds' around you.; people who may be doing it harder than it appears. The good people at RUOK (https://www.ruok.org.au) continue to encourage us to reach out to those who might otherwise be alone both physically and emotionally. Don't assume; reach out and find out by following a few simple tips and as they suggest, "You don't need to be an expert to reach out - just a good friend and a great listener."

Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:
1. Ask R U OK?
2. Listen
3. Encourage action
4. Check in