You don't have to play therapist, but a simple 'are you ok?' can make all the difference according to the Healthy Communities Foundations' Rob Bloomfield.

"It's just offering that gentle ear," the Community Engagement Officer said.

"If somebody doesn't want to open up, don't push them. Just let them know you're about if they need to talk."

He was speaking at the Coonamble Local Aboriginal Land Council this morning, where at least ten people enjoyed a yarn over light food for R U OK Day.

"We are actually now starting to try to make R U OK Day every day," Mr Bloomfield said.

"What you are is just an ear to listen to the person and lot of the time, once that person feels heard, they can sort of take a step back from the precipice."  

Barry Murray, Kevin Fuller, Matt Boney, David Dixon and Percy Wallace joined the Coonamble Aboriginal Land Council's R U OK event. PHOTO: River McCrossen

Suicide prevention campaigner Gavin Larkin founded the campaign in 2009 following the suicide of his father Barry.

Gavin died in 2011, but the day still takes place on the second Thursday of every September.

Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) president Dr Raymond 'RT' Lewandowski said the squeeze from cost of living pressures is taking its toll on mental health.

“Everyone is feeling the effects of increased living expenses, whether that be the increased cost of rent, mortgage, utilities or groceries," Dr Lewandowski said.

"Maintaining social connections when you are under financial pressure is a common challenge, particularly for singles, who may no longer be able to afford to meet friends for dinner or drinks, or have to cut back on dating due to the expense."

He also said financial stress is associated with an increased risk of domestic violence.

“Particularly for women with children when trying to navigate and exit a relationship, the cost of living is a major prohibiting factor,” Dr Lewandowski said.

“Alongside big issues, such as how they will financially be able to support themselves and their children to afford housing, clothing and family law matters, even basic expenses like being able to fill the car with petrol can be the barrier that stops them leaving a dangerous situation.”

Domestic Violence and mental health help is available from:

• 1800 Respect national helpline: 1800 737 732
• Women's Crisis Line: 1800 811 811
• Men's Referral Service: 1300 766 491
• Lifeline's 24-hour crisis line: 131 114