R U OK? is a not-for-profit organisation trying to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them and support anyone struggling with life.
CEO Brendan Maher said given the pressures and isolation staff could face on-site it was vital the R U OK? message got out to mining communities and the industry as a whole.
Maher said everyone had the ability and skills to check in with anyone they are worried about, and recognising and assisting someone who did not seem their usual self could begin with just four steps: ask, listen, Encourage action and check in.
He said he was thrilled to be out in the heart of the WA mining district talking to workers and community members who often faced unique struggles around isolation and separation from family and friends.
"It's important that we give people the skills to notice the signs that someone might be doing it tough and to know what to say if someone says ‘no, I'm not OK," he said.
Rio Tinto general manager at Dampier Ports Jessica Farrell said there were a number of the internal resources available to team members such as Rio Tinto's Peer Support Program, Wellbeing leader Training and Employee Assistance Program.
Farrell said we all had things going on in our lives at times that could challenge our mental well-being, but even if we were going OK chances were we knew someone going through a tough time.
She said having the courage to ask the question could really change someone's life and help put them on a positive pathway towards effectively managing the issue.
Rio Tinto health and safety general manager Suzy Retallack said Rio was proud to support the R U OK? Conversation convoy in both Wickham and Dampier, and the events were a great opportunity for employees and the local community to reflect on the importance of looking after each other's wellbeing every day.
She said an offer of genuine support could make all the difference for some people, which was why encouraging the R U OK conversation was so important.
The R U OK? Conversation Convoy started its national drive at Yulara in Uluru.
The convoy plans to progressively motor its way around Australia to host regional, remote and metro events at schools, parks, workplaces and other significant locations within communities.
The Convoy's next stop will be in Perth on Monday August 14, and R U OK? Day - the national day of action - is on September 14.
With suicide prevalent in regional Australia and reaching epidemic proportions in some WA communities every day is the day to start a conversation.
If you are worried about someone and feel urgent professional support is needed make sure you contact your local doctor or call 000.
If you feel overwhelmed yourself please call Lifeline 24/7 on 13 11 14; Beyondblue on 1300 224 636; or SANE Australia on 1800 187 263.
