The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) urges health professionals to consider their own mental and physical health needs, today on R U OK? day, and every day. 

“All that is great about rural practice can also bring personal pressures,” says ACRRM President Dr Dan Halliday. 

“RGs and specialist rural GPs often carry the brunt of the load in rural, remote, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 

“The adventure of taking up work ‘off the beaten track’ can take you away from extended social support networks. 

“Couple that with the pressures of being the only RG in town, difficulties in securing locum relief, and responsibilities within the community, and it can be a compounding impact.” 

“As a College, we are steadfastly run by Rural Generalists, we know that practitioner health and wellbeing is an integral component of safe and respectful workplaces. 

“We are committed to supporting our members and staff with holistic wellbeing so they in turn can support their communities.  

“We encourage members and staff to remind themselves on what they love about their work, and at the same time, take regular steps to maintain their own mental wellbeing and general health.  

“Today is R U OK? day. Please reach out to your colleagues to ask R U OK? today, and every day.” 

ENDS