HCF's Health Agenda - Mental Health Hub

Feeling overwhelmed? Being mindful can help

In our noisy, daily lives it can be hard to find a moment of silence. Here we explore the benefits of being more mindful during quiet time.

Why we need to talk about men’s mental health

From peer-support networks to a more formal pathway of care, addressing the mental health needs of Australian men benefits us all.

CAN YOU REALLY CATCH UP ON SLEEP?

Getting enough sleep is one of the most important lifestyle factors affecting our wellbeing. Here’s why you should take it seriously, with tips to get a better night's sleep.

ANXIETY AT NIGHT: HOW WORRY AFFECTS YOUR SLEEP

Anxiety and sleep problems are closely linked. Worry can cause poor sleep, while sleep troubles can lead to anxiety. Here’s how to break the cycle.

HOW YOUR PRIVATE HEALTH COVER CAN SUPPORT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

From making GPs more accessible to providing treatment options for anxiety and depression, here’s how your health cover can support your mental wellbeing.

The benefits of walking for mental health and brain function

There's more to walking than just staying fit. It can also enhance your mental health, boost cognitive function and keep your brain healthy for longer.

How to reduce financial stress in the home

Many families are struggling with financial stress, but how do you communicate this to kids without giving them cause for worry?

How to talk to kids about their mental health

Keeping a check on your kids’ mental health is essential. Discover how to spot signs of anxiety or depression, and where to get help if it’s needed.

How to talk about loneliness with your friends and family

Feeling lonely can happen to us all. It’s a condition that makes you turn inwards and feel disconnected when what you really need is social support. Here’s how to tackle it.

7 easy ways to boost your health outdoors

Spending more time in blue space, like water, and green space, like parks, can help you de-stress, get fitter and improve your memory.

7 simple ways to improve your memory

Having good recall of information, objects and events isn’t down to good luck – there are lots of things you can actively do to keep your brain sharp.

How to talk about death with family and friends

If someone close to you has died and you’re grieving – or you know someone who is – here’s how to approach the topic sensitively.

How to talk about anxiety with your family, friends and colleagues

Talking about your anxiety to other people can be a scary prospect – but it doesn’t need to be. Here’s how to raise the topic to make sure you get the support you deserve.

HOW TO TALK TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS ABOUT CHANGING YOUR DRINKING HABITS

If you’ve made the choice to change the way you drink, or give up alcohol completely, you may struggle with how to navigate certain social situations. These go-to responses will help you feel confident in your decision.

HOW SOCIAL MEDIA CAN AFFECT YOUR BODY IMAGE

We’re spending more time than ever on social media, but how exactly does it impact our body image, and is it all bad news? Here’s what the latest research reveals.

5 ways to boost your energy levels

At times, the mental load can feel overwhelming for women. We explore five common causes of tiredness and ask a GP for simple strategies to help.

What type of exercise should you do to help depression and anxiety?

We know exercise has benefits for mental health, but how long and how often should you work out to help depression and anxiety, and which intensity works best?

THE WORRYING RISE IN MEN’S BODY IMAGE ISSUES

Almost half of all men have body image issues, which can lead to eating disorders and exercise addiction. Here’s what to do about it.

WHAT IS WORK BURNOUT? SYMPTOMS AND HOW TO RECOVER

Aussie research shows work burnout is most common in people in professional caring roles. Here’s how to find out if you're burnt out and what to do next.

Managing the mental load of family life

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed by the mental load that comes with family life? Here’s how to set boundaries and keep things running efficiently.

HOW TELEHEALTH IS SUPPORTING OUR MENTAL HEALTH

Mental healthcare through telehealth is now widely available for those who prefer to receive counselling or therapy from the comfort of their own home.

Children and COVID-19: Vaccines, returning to school and how to give them the support they need

As lockdowns start to lift, many children are excited to go back to school. But with some kids still unvaccinated, here are some things parents can do to help keep their youngsters feeling safe and supported.

How to help an alcoholic partner

Supporting an alcoholic partner as they try to manage addiction can take its toll on your own health and wellbeing.

Signs of childhood depression

Depression in children can look and feel very different to what an adult might experience. As parents and carers how can we spot the tell-tale signs of childhood depression?

COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

Depression affects people in different ways and may cause emotional, mental and physical symptoms. Here are the signs and symptoms of depression to look out for.

How social isolation impacts our mental health

Lockdowns and separation from loved ones have left many people feeling lonely.

How to help a child with depression

When a child is suffering from severe stress, anxiety or depression, parents and carers can feel powerless. So how can families help a child with depression?

Can a child have depression?

It’s not something most people think of as an issue in the younger years, but a child with depression is more common than you might realise.

6 WAYS TO HELP OVERCOME YOUR NEGATIVE BODY IMAGE

Negative body image can affect your mental health. Learn how to give your body image a boost, for a healthier mindset and a happier life.

How to help your child with anxiety

Understanding what anxiety in children is, and where it comes from, can help parents support stressed-out youngsters.

How to spot symptoms of anxiety in children

Being able to identify signs and symptoms of anxiety in a child can help parents and carers understand and support their youngsters.

The real impact of drinking alcohol in front of children

Research tells us youngsters learn many of their behaviours from their parents. So what affect does drinking alcohol around our children have?

Growing up as a child of an alcoholic

Now a happily married mum of three, Natalie* grew up in a house where both her parents struggled with alcohol addiction. Here she reveals what that was like, and how it impacted her life.

What is body image?

Our perception of how we look influences how we feel and interact with the world. But how important is having a good body image and what kind of impact can it have on our health?

Building healthy self-esteem in kids

While parents may not be able to protect children from every tough challenge they’re going to face, we can give them some strategies to help them cope.

Building confidence in children

There are things you can do every day to give your child a confidence boost.

Breathing exercises for anxiety

When anxiety hits, it can be overwhelming. Use these relaxing techniques to curb stressful feelings.

Co-parenting with an alcoholic partner

If your partner or ex-partner is living with an alcohol-use disorder, or recovering from one, everyday life can become a challenge.

What is bipolar disorder and could I have it?

People living with bipolar disorder can experience extreme mood swings. Recognising the symptoms and getting help earlier can make all the difference.

SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY

What anxiety looks and feels like is different for everyone. Here are some of the more common symptoms of anxiety and how to lessen their impact.

WHAT CAUSES ANXIETY DISORDER AND HOW TO GET HELP

Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in Australia: understanding what causes it can be the first step in changing the impact it has on your life.

What causes panic attacks and how you can prevent them

Panic attacks can be a sign of stress, depression or anxiety. Here’s your guide on what causes panic attacks, how to cope with them and reduce your symptoms.

HOW TO DEAL WITH FINANCIAL STRESS

Money worries have affected many of us in the past year. Here’s how financial stress can impact you and what to do about it.

Psychologist and psychiatrist: what's the difference?

Knowing the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist, as well as finding the right mental health professional, increases your chances of successful therapy.

Alcohol consumption and the dangers of the reward system

Alcohol consumption is part of Australian culture and for many of us, drinking is seen as a well-earned reward after a tough day. But how can you replace that daily reward with a healthier gratification?

7 DIGITAL MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Digital mental health services have been around for some time, but in the aftermath of COVID-19 and the pressure of the rising cost of living, they've become more popular than ever. These seven mental health programs are designed for the whole family and can be accessed online, wherever you may be.

What is depression and could I have it?

Everyone goes through emotional ups and downs, but what’s the difference between feeling sad and being depressed? One in five of us will experience depression during our lifetime, but there are things you can do about it.

ALCOHOL AND DEPRESSION IN MEN

Having a few beers with mates is still something many Aussie blokes do to unwind. But the growing link between men, alcohol and mental health is revealing some shocking effects. Here’s how drinking is affecting men.

HOW TO BREAK THE ALCOHOL HABIT

Find yourself pouring a drink without giving it a moment’s thought? It might be time to knock that alcohol habit on the head.

The science of a break-up: What happens to our bodies?

The end of your romantic relationship can make a real dent in your physical health. But with the right coping strategies, it can also lead to positive change.

Facing our fears: Why do we develop common phobias?

Certain types of phobias can be debilitating without the right treatment. Let’s explore where common phobias come from and how to deal with the objects or situations that terrify us.

Building healthy routines after lockdown

During isolation, many good habits and routines have changed or completely gone out the window. Here, we look at how to gently reintroduce positive habits around diet, exercise, sleep and mental health.

Mental health hero: Meet Nic Newling

At 12, HCF member Nic Newling began a harrowing mental health journey. But the despair turned to joy once he received the right diagnosis and began to share his story with others.

How decluttering improves your life (and tips to get started)

Decluttering has a lot of health benefits. Not only does it help clear your mind and improve your environment, it’s also an easy form of exercise.

CORONAVIRUS AND MENTAL HEALTH: WAYS TO REDUCE STRESS

Prioritising good mental health is always important. But, when faced with an unprecedented situation like Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the sudden changes to our everyday routine, it’s essential.

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES FOR TEENAGERS?

The number of teenagers experiencing mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, is on the rise. Here are the warning signs and where to find help.

TALKING TO TEENS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH: HERE ARE THE QUESTIONS TO ASK

If you’ve spotted the warning signs of mental health issues in your teen, it’s vital to chat with them about what they’re feeling. Here’s how to start the conversation.

ANXIETY IN CHILDREN: SMALL STEPS TO HELP SUPPORT KIDS AND TEENS

Is your child showing signs of anxiety? Here’s how to notice when their fears are more than just normal ‘child worries’ and manage the symptoms.

SOCIAL MEDIA FOR KIDS: THE IMPACT ON THEIR MENTAL HEALTH

How do you know when social media is affecting your child’s mental health? Recognise the signs and support children with their social media use.

ECO-ANXIETY: ARE NATURAL DISASTERS CAUSING OUR CHILDREN TO WORRY?

Here’s how you can help reduce you children’s eco-anxiety and give them the confidence to take steps towards a brighter future.

Can we overcome the stigma of mental health plans?

Why don’t people use their mental health care plan? Here’s how to overcome the stigma of mental health diagnosis and find the right psychologist for you.

Lonely Christmas: How to deal with being alone during the festive season

On your own this Christmas? Here are 5 tips to avoid loneliness at Christmas and bring joy into your life and the lives of others.

Feeling overwhelmed? Being mindful can help

In our noisy, daily lives it can be hard to find a moment of silence. Here we explore the benefits of being more mindful during quiet time.

How to share a life story: The wonderful benefits of a memoir

Here, we look at how and why sharing your life story at the end of your life could deliver therapeutic and psychological benefits.

HOW TO MANAGE ANXIETY: SIX CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

When anxiety hits it can be paralysing. Here are some techniques to help manage anxiety and stress so you feel more in control.

BENEFITS OF HUMAN TOUCH: WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON OUR HEALTH?

Can a little human touch bring about health benefits? We find out.

When perfectionism turns into anxiety: what are the signs?

A small dose of perfectionism can be a positive thing but when do perfectionism and anxiety become interlinked? Here are the signs to look out for.

Are toxic relationships bad for your health?

When is a relationship unhealthy? We speak to an expert to find out how to recognise one and step back.

What is body dysmorphic disorder?

While it’s normal to think about your appearance from time to time, for people with body dsymorphia, it can become an obsession that interferes with their life and cause anxiety.

How ‘green space’ can improve your health

Walking in the park, swimming in the ocean and chasing waterfalls can all boost your overall health.

Are there brain benefits to boredom?

Do you find yourself filling every moment of your day to avoid boredom? Reconsider. You may be undermining your next big idea or missing out on an opportunity for creativity.

Managing anxiety: how to feel more in control

Anxiety affects 1 in 4 Australians. Here’s what it can feel like, and the treatments that may help.

How to get stuff done – the science behind motivation

Finding motivation isn’t always easy. We discover where it lies in the brain, and how to activate it.

ANGER: IS BOTTLING IT UP BAD FOR US?

Where does anger come from? And is expressing it good for us? We ask the experts.

WHAT 5 MENTAL HEALTH EXPERTS DO TO REDUCE STRESS

We should all have strategies to keep mentally healthy. We asked 5 people who work in mental health what works for them.

SPOTTING SUICIDE RISK

The number of Australians taking their lives is concerning. Here’s how to recognise the signs in others and get help for yourself, if needed.

What is post-traumatic stress disorder?

Around 12% of Australians will experience post-traumatic stress disorder in their lifetime. How can you recognise the signs in yourself or others, and where can you seek help?

CREATE A HEALTH RETREAT AT HOME

5 simple steps to transform your home into a health retreat.

How to create healthy boundaries

We look at setting boundaries in 5 areas of your life, and how they can help reduce stress and strengthen relationships.

OCD: MYTHS VS FACTS

OCD is not about being incredibly tidy; it’s a misunderstood mental health condition, which affects around 500,000 Australians.

CAN SEX BOOST YOUR HEALTH?

Research shows a healthy sex life is a contributor to both your mental and physical health.

HOW TO NAVIGATE ONLINE DATING

With dating apps and online dating sites, judgement and rejection come with the territory. Here’s how to maintain perspective.

POSITIVELY HEALTHY

Could an optimistic approach improve an injury or help you reach health goals? A growing body of research says yes.

How to make resolutions that last

A new year can be a good time to make positive changes to your life and health habits. Here’s how to make New Year’s resolutions stick.

Male depression: starting the conversation

Although depression in men is common, many find the condition difficult to speak about. We talk to 2 men who reached out, got help and are on the road to recovery.

Can always staying positive be bad for our health?

Searching for a silver lining could be a good coping mechanism, but studies show suppressing emotions to stay positive can negatively affect our health.

How to prioritise self-care this festive season

Christmas should be a time of celebration, but for many it can be a stressful period marked by unrealistic expectations, family tension and financial pressures. Here’s how to bring peace and joy back to your silly season.

IS AUTISM ON THE RISE?

Why the number of kids being diagnosed with autism is increasing.

Coping With Loss: the 7 Stages of Grief

Loss affects us all and is one of the most traumatic life events. Here’s how understanding the 7 stages of grief can help you with the grieving process.

LIVING WITH A CHRONIC DISEASE

Being diagnosed with a chronic illness can be an emotional and challenging time, but your mindset can have an impact on how you cope.

The importance of friendships as you age

Having friends is good for your health – that’s no surprise. But new research shows that as we get older, close ties with friends become more important than ever.

Is screen time harming your health?

How to stop being distracted by your digital devices and start a healthy relationship with technology.

Is bad news making our kids anxious?

Kids hear about distressing events through the media and adult conversation around them. Here’s what to do if you think your child is feeling anxious.

Finding happiness in old age

Research shows that our ‘third age’ – the years after we retire – can be the most rewarding.

THE HEALTH IMPACTS OF LONELINESS

For many of us the world is becoming a lonelier place. More than just making us feel sad, it can make us physically ill, but there are ways to reach out.

Finding your third space

Struggling to achieve work-life balance? The Third Space may be the answer.

Types of eating disorders and understanding the signs

Eating disorders often go unrecognised and untreated, but increased awareness and understanding can drive positive change.

Supporting a loved one through a tough diagnosis

It’s always distressing when someone you care about gets sick. Here are some strategies for taking care of them, and yourself.

Treating depression: a new approach

One in five Australians is living with depression. Online therapy is emerging as an effective and accessible treatment option.

Why grit matters

More and more top performance scientists are pinpointing grit as a way of obtaining success. Is it how you win at life?

The power of brain training

Can you really train your brain to perform 30 years younger? According to the experts, neuroplasticity means you’re only as young as your brain can think.

Total recall: tips for improving your memory

Constantly looking for your keys? Beat momentary memory lapses with a daily mental workout.

Mental health: A helping hand

How to help a family member or friend through a mental health episode.

7 SIDE EFFECTS OF STRESS

You can’t avoid stress but you can help limit its impact on your health. Here are seven good reasons to reduce your stress levels and how to achieve it.

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