By Jamal Thomas

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Community members gathered September 10 at The Council on Substance Abuse (COSA) for an R U OK? Day event focused on an important but sometimes difficult question: Are you OK?

The event created a welcoming space for people to connect, enjoy fellowship and bring greater awareness to suicide prevention and the importance of checking on those who may be struggling in silence.

Organized with the message “We make time to ask, R U OK?”, the gathering encouraged people to be more intentional about reaching out to friends, relatives, coworkers and others in their community.

COSA organizer Roshaine Byfield emphasized the importance of starting conversations and creating an environment where people feel comfortable talking about what they are experiencing.

The event also recognized Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, reinforcing the message that a simple conversation can make a meaningful difference. Attendees shared food and fellowship while supporting a cause centered on compassion, connection and reminding others that they matter.

For many people experiencing emotional difficulties, their struggles may not always be visible. R U OK? Day challenges people to look beyond appearances, check on one another and be willing to listen.

The message from the Montgomery gathering was simple but powerful: Take the time to ask, “Are you OK?” — and take the time to listen to the answer.

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