Between bunches of kale and takeaway coffees, a different kind of exchange was taking place.

The R U OK? Conversation Convoy set up at Kiama’s farmers market on Wednesday, encouraging locals to check in on friends, family and colleagues who might be struggling with life’s pressures.

R U OK? representative Annabel Bowman said the initiative is designed to meet people where they are, rather than relying on them to seek out formal services.

“We’re really trying to meet locals where they’re at,” Bowman said. 

“Not everybody wants to go to a service or a public health centre, so we’re bringing the conversation to them.”

Bowman said research shows regular check-ins – not just on the official R U OK? Day – build trust and make it more likely that someone will open up when they are struggling.

“It’s asking often and early, before little things turn into big things,” she said.

She added that a common misconception is that the conversation only matters on R U OK? Day, held this year on 10 September.

“We want people to ask R U OK? any day of the year. When we have these conversations regularly, we build trust,” Bowman said.

“It can seem like a simple conversation, but at times it can be daunting and we just really want to empower people with confidence.”

Bowman outlined three key areas to notice when deciding whether to check in: what a person says, how they behave, and what is happening in their life.

“They might express unusual hopelessness, say they’re constantly tired, withdraw from activities, or appear different than usual,” she said.

“Or they could be navigating a significant stressor such as illness, a relationship breakdown or financial pressures.”

While many feel nervous about asking the question, Bowman said most people who are asked feel grateful.

“They feel heard, supported and seen,” she said. “The nervousness is normal – but once you’ve had the conversation, there’s often a sense of relief.”

Bowman emphasised that authenticity is key.

“The most important factor is you do it with authenticity,” she said. “Make time, make space, ask because you care and the person being asked will know that you're someone safe to open up to.”

Face-to-face conversations are best because they allow subtle body language and tone to be observed, but Bowman encourages phone calls or messages if meeting in person isn’t possible.

Market manager Tricia Ashelford said the event reinforced a sense of community.

“We love having community groups here – It’s about connecting with the community at the end of the day,” Ashelford said. 

“That’s what we love about our farmers market – it’s for locals.”

She praised the collaboration with headspace and other organisations.

“People want to contribute back to making the community a better place,” Ashelford said.

Founded in 2009 by Gavin Larkin after he lost his father to suicide, R U OK? has grown into a national suicide prevention charity that helps Australians recognise when someone might be struggling and respond appropriately.

For free resources and conversation guides, visit ruok.org.au.