Barry Du Bois: Television presenter, designer, builder, author, father and the recipient of the best hair in the business. But did you know he’s also on the board of R U OK? Day? Baz took some out to chat to The Water Cooler about why he’s so passionate about this cause and what we can do to look out for each other.
How long have you been on the Board of R U OK? Day and why was it important to you to be associated with the organisation?
As soon as I got a platform in media, I knew I wanted to put my efforts behind R U OK? Day. It’s very special to me. I went through a dark time in my life and it was that simple question, “R U OK?” that got me on the journey out of depression. That question had come from a lot of people but eventually it came from the right person and it got me out of that darkness. So when I was given the opportunity to be an ambassador, I took it straight away.
Since COVID, we’ve see a spike in mental issues across all ages. What do you think we need to try and do to level that out?
The reason the human race has developed so far is its ability to communicate on multiple levels and interact on a personal and emotional level. With social media, lockdown, the fast paced life that we all live in now, that time to communicate is something that is slipping through the cracks. And in doing so, the cracks are getting bigger. We need to take time out to respect ourselves and people around us. And that means looking at people and listening to people. And you need to keep following up on those conversations because we know that those conversations ease the burden of pain and darkness. When you’re stuck in your home and you don’t have the social aspect of work, you don’t get to share some of those minor problems. And when you don’t get to have those connections, you can start to lose sight of what’s real and what’s not real.
Do you have any strategies to help manage mental health issues such as anxiety?
For me, the most important thing I can do is take some time out for myself. Make sure I eat well and exercise enough to allow me to sleep well. If I can just allow myself to be still for a while, they’re the things that keep me mentally healthy. Also, taking the time to be engaged with a friend. Having real and meaningful conversations.
What are the key messages you want people to think about on R U OK? Day?
The same key messages I give for every day. Trust your gut. If you feel someone might be acting differently, find that safe environment and check in with them. Listen and follow up. That’s the beauty of this day, all we’re asking people to do is share that beautiful trait of conversation.
