There is no better time than Thursday during R U OK Day, a national day of action to encourage people to start a conversation to potentially prevent a crisis for someone who is struggling.

Wagga Ambulance station officer paramedic Aaron Reilly said the Wagga crew would be ramping up the day with a follow-up question.

Working in a stressful profession, ambulance officers could raise the question almost every day as they often deal with traumatic incidents which could have a serious effect on their mental well-being.

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"We're taking it a bit more seriously from previous years with the seriousness of the matter with a follow-up question by asking R U really ok?" Mr Reilly said.

"Mainly because of COVID, everybody is struggling, so there's more of an emphasis on it this year.

"People don't usually speak up about mental health and in our profession there's research to show that we experience more post traumatic stress disorder than most - that's not to say the general public don't experience it either, but in this field it's prevalent as it's a stressful job.

"We always have a debrief and a chat after an incident occurs and if a problem is raised you can speak to an appropriate person about it to get help and not dwell on it.

"It's part of our day-to-day work when you're with one person for 12 hours and it's a good way to break down the barriers by asking the question."

Realising many are reluctant to discuss their problems, Mr Reilly encouraged people to be "open and honest"

"We're lucky here as we have a good culture and we're close-knit, but not many people who are struggling go asking for help, but sometimes people just need someone to talk to and get things off their chest," he said.

"Many people who ask are worried about the answer they'll get, but depending on how serious the matter is, it could save someone's life.

"The past few years have been the worst we've had with the impact of COVID so once we can get back out to the pub with mates that gives us an awesome opportunity to help someone."

Meantime Riverina Murray Business (RMB) has chipped in to help raise awareness and to prompt people to have a conversation with those who might not be dealing well with life's struggles.

RMB regional manager David Yeates said RMB had donated $200 to three local cafes to use during R U OK Day.

"The staff will use the funds to give free coffees out to anyone they think needs it," Mr Yeates said.

"It's something we have done for the last two R U OK days, this year it is even more important that we get the message out to ask R U OK?

"Trail Street Cafe, the Curious Rabbit and the Thirsty Crow will all be participating."

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