Make asking R U OK? part of your everyday
Let's talk about the need to champion mental health and wellbeing for all people in the supply-chain sector, and start by asking R U OK?
Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds (HHTS) has teamed up with R U OK? for the second year of R U OK? in Trucks & Sheds, and Pickles is excited to support this important initiative once again. Hosted on 16 May 2023, it’s an industry day of action for all those employed in the road transport, warehousing and logistics industries.
Why a different date to the national day, which is held on 14 September this year? This is done to place focus on those working in the transport, warehousing and logistics industries, and the challenges they may face, such as long hours, shift work and high job demands.
R U OK? in Trucks & Sheds on 16 May is a day to remind ourselves and those around us about the importance of creating a culture where conversations come naturally. Although it may feel difficult at first to ask a mate how they are feeling, it can make a huge difference – both to your mate and to building a culture where wellbeing is a priority. The conversations we have today are helping us build a better tomorrow through fostering a work culture that enables people to feel comfortable talking, whether that be checking in on their colleagues or asking for support.
HHTS statistics indicate that 48 percent of workers in the road transport, warehousing, and logistics industries have experienced mental health problems in the past 12 months. The percentage is significantly higher than the national average of 20 percent. Life’s ups and downs happen to us all, but it’s evident that for those working in these industries, the challenges are often amplified due to various unique work conditions.
At Pickles, we are passionate about wellbeing and proactivity when it comes to implementing and encouraging action. We strongly support HHTS and their numerous mental health initiatives, and recognise the importance of creating a culture of conversations within the road transport, warehousing and logistics work sectors.
It’s OK not to be OK. Let’s start talking before we get to the crisis point. Let’s ensure that we are checking in on each other regularly. Let’s make R U OK? part of the everyday.
This year, to help inspire, motivate and unwind, Pickles has curated a playlist to shine a spotlight on wellness in the trucks and sheds workforce. We’d love for you to give our ‘Road to Wellness’ playlist a listen.
Be sure to check out Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds for more great wellbeing initiatives, and download the Healthy Heads App for access to supports on the go.
28 Apr