The crew of HMAS Ballarat paused their busy regional presence deployment schedule to mark R U OK? Day at sea.

R U OK? Day is a national day of action dedicated to mental health and wellbeing.

The ship’s company held a morning tea to emphasise the importance of connection, mateship and support – values that run deep within the Royal Australian Navy.

Commanding Officer HMAS Ballarat Commander Dean Uren said the day was an opportunity to remind each other that simple conversations can have a profound impact.

“Our people are our greatest asset and simply asking ‘Are you OK?’, listening and looking out for each other ensures we remain strong and keep each other safe,” Commander Uren said.

Executive Officer HMAS Ballarat Lieutenant Commander Kane Stuart shared a touching personal story about his fiancé, an ex-Navy member, who had personal struggles no one was aware of – not even her partner.

“One day while deployed, her cabin mate walked in, noticed she looked upset and asked if she was okay,” Lieutenant Commander Stuart said.

“And was handed a suicide note.

“She then opened up about the fact that she wasn’t OK, and to this day I think that person literally saved her life.”

'Ask "Are you OK?" because a conversation could change a life.'

This heart-wrenching story demonstrates the importance of looking out for your mates and checking in if something does not seem right.

“I share this story with her permission in the hope that it helps people understand the power of asking someone, ‘Are you OK?’,” Lieutenant Commander Stuart said.

“We face some significant stressors in the Navy, especially when we’re away from home, so let’s help spread the message that we can do something.

“It might be small to you or I, but one day it could save someone’s life.”

Able Seaman Daniel Wilkinson organised the morning tea, which included red velvet cupcakes prepared by HMAS Ballarat chefs and a raffle to raise money and awareness for the important cause.

“Fundraising for R U OK? Day helps raise awareness for mental health by encouraging people to stay connected and have conversations that can help in difficult times” Able Seaman Wilkinson said.

“We all have a role to play in looking out for those we care about at home, at work or in the community.

“Ask ‘Are you OK?’ because a conversation could change a life.”

HMAS Ballarat raised $400 for R U OK? Day, reinforcing her commitment to operational excellence through strong mental health and wellbeing, and ensuring every crew member knows that support is never far away.