The Power of Checking In: A Simple Act That Could Save a Life

Life is full of challenges, and as the Unbreakable Farmer, I know that better than most. The curveballs life throws at us can come from all directions—whether it’s the harsh impact of natural disasters, the relentless rise in the cost of living, skyrocketing interest rates, or personal heartbreaks like losing a relationship, a job, or even a roof over your head. We’re all carrying weight, and for many, that burden is heavy, leaving them feeling isolated and alone.

When the pressure mounts, it doesn’t just affect your bank account or your physical surroundings. It chips away at your mental health, making it harder to see a way through. Now, more than ever, people are struggling in silence. Professional services—counselors, mental health professionals—are there, but they’re overwhelmed. The truth is, it’s getting harder for people to access the help they need when they need it most.

But here’s the thing: there’s something simple, something powerful, that every one of us can do. It doesn’t require special training or a big grand gesture. It’s about checking in. It’s about picking up the phone, sending a message, or just sitting down for a cup of coffee with someone. Checking in might seem small, but trust me, it can make all the difference.

Life Can Knock You Down—Don’t Go It Alone

Take it from someone who’s been through the wringer. Life doesn’t always go as planned. One minute, everything’s ticking along smoothly, and the next, you’re hit with a drought, a flood, or a fire. Maybe it’s a different kind of disaster—a job loss, a divorce, the closure of a business you poured your heart and soul into. Whatever it is, it can leave you feeling like you’re standing on shaky ground. When the hits keep coming, it’s easy to start thinking you’re the only one fighting this battle.

But that’s where we go wrong. We might feel isolated, but we don’t have to face these challenges alone. The people around us—our friends, our family, our coworkers—they might not always see the struggle, but that doesn’t mean they don’t care. And just as importantly, we can’t assume they’re doing fine either.

 That’s why checking in is so critical. It’s not about solving someone else’s problems for them, but simply showing up. It’s about opening a door and letting someone know you see them. And when you open that door, you give them permission to talk, to share what’s going on inside.

Why Checking In Matters

I’ve learned through my own battles that sometimes the hardest part isn’t dealing with the problem itself—it’s the feeling that no one else understands, that you’re on your own. Checking in with someone, even if they seem to be holding it together on the outside, can be the thing that helps them break through that sense of isolation.

You might think your mates are doing fine because they’re going to work every day, putting on a brave face, keeping up appearances. But the truth is, many of us are barely holding it together behind closed doors. A simple question like, “How’s it going, really?” can be the lifeline someone needs. And you don’t need to be a mental health expert to ask it. 

You might be the one who starts a conversation that gives someone the hope they need to get through another day. You might be the one who, just by showing you care, helps someone feel seen. And in some cases, that simple act could save a life.

Small Gestures, Huge Impact

I know it can feel overwhelming sometimes, especially when the problems we’re facing seem so big. But it’s not about fixing everything all at once. It’s about taking those small steps, one at a time, and one of the easiest—and most powerful—steps is to check in with the people around you.

You don’t need to wait for someone to ask for help. Often, the ones who need it the most are the ones who aren’t saying a word. Checking in is a way to remind them they don’t have to carry the weight alone. You’re there for them, just as they’d be there for you.

Who Are You Going to Check In With Today?

So here’s my challenge to you, straight from the Unbreakable Farmer: who are you going to check in with today? Who in your life might be carrying more than they’re letting on? Whether it’s a mate from work, a family member, or even someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, reach out. Start a conversation.

You don’t have to do anything fancy or offer solutions. Just be there. Let them know you’re in their corner. Let them know you care.

Because in the end, it’s these small moments of connection that can make all the difference. Even in the toughest of times, we’re stronger together.

So, who are you going to check in with today?