#FriendBetter this R U OK? Week at ECU
Tuesday, 01 September 2026
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Learn how to #FriendBetter this R U OK? Week and support the people around you.
University life is better together.
This September, ECU students and staff are invited to take part in R U OK? Week 2026, a week dedicated to connection, wellbeing and learning how to #FriendBetter.
The R U OK? campaign reminds us that checking in with friends, peers and family can make a real difference during life's ups and downs, such as navigating study stress, financial pressures, loneliness, relationship challenges or mental health conditions.
This year's activities will encourage the ECU community to notice when something doesn't seem quite right, reach out to a friend or peer and build confidence in having meaningful conversations. After all, you don't need to be an expert to ask, "Are you OK?" and show someone you care.
How to ask R U OK?
It can feel daunting to start a conversation if you think someone might be struggling. These four simple steps from R U OK? can help:
- Ask
Pick the right moment and ask, “Are you OK?”, and be relaxed, friendly and concerned in your approach. - Listen
Give them your full attention without judgement, and take what they say seriously and don't interrupt or rush the conversation. - Encourage action
Ask questions like “How would you like me to support you?” and suggest they talk to someone they trust or seek support if they need it. - Check in
Follow up in the days or weeks ahead to show you care.
What’s on at ECU
Students and staff can join the activities happening at each campus:
- Joondalup Campus: Tuesday 8 September, 11.30am – 1.30pm, outside Building 32
- City Campus: Thursday 10 September, 11.30am – 1.30pm, ECU Edge (Level 4)
- Bunbury Campus and ECU Learning Centre Busselton: Thursday 10 September, 11.00am – 1.00pm, Kulbardi Court
During these times you'll find a range of activities including games, craft activities, conversation starters and free massages. We will also have our popular smoothie bike, a nutrition stand, the famous Guild BBQ and opportunities to connect with ECU support services. Plus, the day wouldn’t be complete without a visit from our ECU wellbeing dogs, Edi and Watson (Joondalup and City), and Harper (at Bunbury Campus).*
*Please note, not all activities are available at all campuses and there are limited supplies of all giveaways.
Students can also attend a free Mental Health Basics Workshop delivered by Helping Minds, designed to build mental health literacy, recognise signs of distress and explore practical ways to support others.
- Joondalup Campus
JO.31.450 (Library, Level 4)
Tuesday 8 September, 12.30pm – 1.30pm
Register here - City Campus
CC.1S.609 (Level 6)
Thursday 10 September, 3.30pm – 4.30pm
Register here
Bunbury will be hosting a Mental Health Basics Workshop for students, run by South West Wellbeing Centre.
- Bunbury Campus
SW.6.103
Thursday 10 September, 12.30pm – 1.30pm
Register here
Get support online
Whether you're studying online or on campus, R U OK? Week is an opportunity to strengthen your support network and learn how to be the friend who notices, listens and checks in. If you’re finding things tough, you don’t need to go through it alone.
ECU has free online support services available, including Psychological Counselling Support, Student Success, Housing Advice, Financial Counselling and the Psychological Counselling Support tip sheets.
For urgent mental health support outside of office hours, ECU students can access the Out of Hours Crisis Line by calling 1300 583 032 or texting 0488 884 232. This service is available 4.30pm – 8.30am on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends.
Looking for more ways to support your wellbeing online? Check out the 2026 Student Health and Wellbeing Activities Planner for upcoming activities. For online students, we have two upcoming events in September:
- Building Safer Communities: Monday 14 September, 12.00pm
- Sexual Health Workshop: Tuesday 15 September, 12.30pm
At ECU, community is built on care. A small question like “Are you OK?” and a willingness to listen can make a world of difference.
Because some things really are better together.
#FriendBetter. Ask R U OK?