In support of R U OK? Day on Thursday, September 8, the KIIS Network will encourage listeners to reflect on their mental health and reach out to their loved ones.
Across the country, each station will pause for 10 seconds of silence every hour to serve as a reminder to ask friends, family and colleagues how they are really doing in the hopes of igniting deep and meaningful dialogue.
Sydney’s KIIS 1065, Melbourne’s KIIS 101.1, Brisbane’s 97.3FM, Adelaide’s Mix102.3 and Perth’s 96fm will all be partaking to go silent for 10 seconds every hour.
The on-air talent will be leading the campaign in each market, a number of whom have been very open about their mental health struggles in recent months – from Ali Clarke sharing her anxiety in a previous role and Will McMahon opening up about his battle with depression.
See also: “I’m having a ball”: Ali Clarke on making the move back to commercial radio
This will be the third year ARN have supported R U OK?DAY with 10 seconds of silence. Last year, ARN offered all staff a day off of their choosing in September to give them the chance to recharge and look after their health and mental well-being.
R U OK? is a harm prevention charity that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times in their lives. Recognised annually, the national day aims to remind Australians that every day is the day to ask, ‘are you OK?’ and start a meaningful conversation whenever they spot the signs that someone they care about might be struggling with life.
The KIIS Network’s support of R U OK? Day can be heard on stations throughout Thursday, September 8 or via the free iHeart app.