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Are You Okay Day

Lend an ear, spread the care! On Are You Okay Day, let's reach out and uplift someone's spirit by showing them we genuinely care about their well-being.

Thursday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESecond Thursday in September

OBSERVED INAustralia

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYMental Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Lend an ear and spread the care on "Are You Okay Day" which falls each year on September 12! This special day was first initiated in Australia and has since become a heartfelt annual observance that encourages people to connect and check up on each other. The history of this day dates back to 2009 when it was founded by Gavin Larkin who wanted to raise awareness about mental health and show his compassion for those struggling. We should all take time on this day to ask the simple yet powerful question, "Are you okay?" to our loved ones and friends. It's a day to ignite meaningful conversations, showing that we genuinely care for one another's well-being. So, this "Are You Okay Day", let's commit to reach out, lend an understanding ear and uplift someone's spirit with our loving presence.

TIMELINE

Are You Okay Day Timeline

Are You Okay Day Founded

Gavin Larkin founded Are You Okay Day in Australia to promote mental health awareness and encourage conversations about wellbeing.

Not-For-Profit Status Acquired

Are You Okay Day officially became a not-for-profit organization committed to advocating and supporting mental health.

Expansion of Reach

By 2012, the impact of Are You Okay Day was recognized nationally, with multiple events taking place across Australia.

Partnership with Australian Government

The Australian government partnered with the Are You Okay Day organization in a commitment to supporting and promoting mental health.

Global Awareness

Are You Okay Day started to garner international attention, encouraging people all over the world to check in on each other's wellbeing.

Celebrating 10th Anniversary

Are You Okay Day celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of promoting conversations on mental health and wellbeing.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Are You Okay Day

Arrange a virtual check-in

Living in the digital age allows us to connect with people from afar. Arrange a virtual face-time with your friends, family, and colleagues. One by one, ask them, "Are you okay?" This simple gesture can make a world of difference to someone struggling emotionally.

HOST

Host a tea party

Tea time isn't just about the beverage; it’s about togetherness. Gather your loved ones for a relaxed tea party and create an open environment for conversations. Check in with each other over a cup of tea.

SEND

Send thoughtful messages

A message that shows genuine concern can make someone's day. Send personalized messages to the people you care about and ask "Are You Okay?". It's essential to assure them that they can share their concerns without any judgement.

CONDUCT

Conduct a 'wellness drive'

Plan a wellness drive at your workplace or local community center. Invite professionals who can talk about various aspects of mental health and coping strategies, reminding everyone how important it is to check in with each other.

Share personal stories

Bring together a small group of confidantes and share your struggles and victories related to mental health. This activity opens the floor for others to share their stories, reminding them that they are not alone.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Are You Okay Day

Creates a Culture of Empathy & Understanding

Are You Okay Day cultivates an environment of empathy and understanding. By sharing personal stories about mental health struggles and victories, people empathize with each other's experiences & learn that they are not alone—thereby nurturing a culture of compassion and mutual support.

Promotes Mental Health Awareness

Are You Okay Day provides a powerful platform for raising awareness about mental health. In encouraging people to ask their peers if they're okay, the day fosters open dialogues about mental and emotional wellbeing which is often stigmatized or ignored.

Encourages Communication & Community

On this day, individuals are encouraged to reach out to friends, family and colleagues—promoting communication and strengthening community bonds. Be it a virtual check-in or a relaxed tea party, it's a beautiful way to ensure no one feels isolated and everyone feels valued.