MONDAY, 20 MAY 2024: Trusted health partner HCF has launched an insightful new videos series in collaboration with Netball Australia, aimed at shattering stigmas surrounding periods and mental health and empowering viewers with practical knowledge.

Hosted by author and podcaster Yumi Stynes, the series, titled “Inside the Circle,” features candid discussions with representatives from Suncorp Super Netball teams: the Adelaide Thunderbirds, GIANTS Netball, NSW Swifts, Melbourne Mavericks, Melbourne Vixens, Queensland Firebirds, Sunshine Coast Lightning and West Coast Fever.

These athletes share their journeys of managing both physical and mental health, on and off the court.

The initiative dives deep into topics often cloaked in secrecy, with all-star athletes shedding light on the harsh realities many girls and women face.

From painful periods to conditions like endometriosis, anxiety, and depression, the series underscores the need for women to advocate for their health and seek reliable information and support.

HCF CEO Sheena Jack expressed pride in the project, stressing its important role in driving awareness and support for women’s health issues.

“The series offers viewers the opportunity to connect with the players, explore these important topics with honesty, openness, and compassion, and learn practical tips to help stay informed and in charge of their health,” Ms Jack said.

“Inside the Circle” features poignant moments, with Thunderbirds player Tayla Williams candidly sharing her struggles with endometriosis, a painful and chronic condition that affects at least one in 9 girls and women in Australia, with many unaware they have the condition.

“There was one point last year that I was bleeding for 55 days. If I was told in year seven when I was 12, this is what we consider normal, and this is the science to look for, I can pretty confidently say I would have had a diagnosis sooner because I would have understood that what was happening to myself and knowing what was right or wrong,” Tayla said.

Statistics paint a stark reality: one in four women grapple with periods so heavy they impact their quality of life, while mental health issues among women are on the rise, with one in two Australian women facing such challenges today.

This rings particularly true for young women, with almost half of those aged 16 – 24 diagnosed with a mental disorder in recent years.

West Coast Fever player Kelsey Browne, diagnosed with depression at 16, emphasised the importance of destigmatising mental health conversations.

“[It’s] important to talk about how you’re feeling,” Kelsey said.

“Know that you’re not alone,” she added, reflecting on her own journey of self-discovery.

“I’m 32 now and I’m still figuring it out.”

CEO of Netball Australia, Stacey West, commended HCF’s efforts in raising awareness of crucial health topics, as well as the players for their participation and advocacy for women’s health.

In a society where taboos often silence important conversations, “Inside the Circle” offers hope and empowerment, inspiring women to take charge of their health and wellbeing.

With its honest portrayals and practical insights, the series is not just a viewing experience but a catalyst for change in the way we approach women’s health.

To watch the series, visit https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong

ENDS

Media enquiries to:

Joni Thomes 0475 576 738 or jthomes@hcf.com.au

ABOUT HCF

HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, covers almost 2 million members with health and life insurance, and travel and pet insurance. HCF has been awarded Outstanding Value Health Insurance by Canstar eight years in a row from 2016-2023. On average over the last ten years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average. To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us