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- 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? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/body-image
- What is body dysmorphic disorder? While it’s normal to think about your appearance from time to time, for people with body dysmorphic disorder it can become an obsession that interferes with their life and causes anxiety. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/mental-health/dysmorphic-disorder
- Facts about alcohol consumption for women Some things women need to know about having a healthy relationship with alcohol. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/conditions/women-alcohol-issues
- How should we care for our parents as they age? Supporting your elderly parents once they reach a certain stage of life can be a big adjustment. This advice will help you navigate the changes together. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/family/how-to-care-for-ageing-parents
- How Super Netball star Macy Gardner manages her painful periods After dealing with severe period pain for most of her life, this Aussie athlete says education and being open about menstruation is key. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/super-netball-macy-gardner
- How to talk about miscarriage with family and friends If you’ve experienced early pregnancy loss – or know someone who has – here’s how to approach the topic sensitively. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/fertility-ivf/talking-about-miscarriage
- NO-GAP JOINTS PROGRAM: HOW IT HELPED JANET WITH HER KNEE REPLACEMENT SURGERY After a fall left Janet in acute pain and needing knee replacement surgery, she discovered the benefits of our No-Gap Joints program. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/janets-knee-replacement-surgery
- Orthorexia: Understanding the warning signs Is your need to eat healthily negatively affecting your mood, body and lifestyle? Then you may be suffering from this little-known condition. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/mental-health/orthorexia-warning-signs
- Orthorexia: Understanding the warning signs Is your need to eat healthily negatively affecting your mood, body and lifestyle? Then you may be suffering from this little-known condition. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/orthorexia-warning-signs
- How a knee replacement changed one man's life For 60 years, John was told a knee replacement wasn't possible until he met an orthopaedic surgeon who helped him to walk again with confidence. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/life-changing-knee-replacement
- Reduce dental, physio and optical costs with extras cover Extras cover can help lower your out-of-pocket expenses when you get your teeth cleaned or your eyes checked. Here’s how to maximise the benefits. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/private-health-insurance/extras-cover-to-reduce-dental-optical-physio
- Is vaping bad for you? We talk to experts about the variations in e-cigarettes and examine the research around vaping side effects. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/e-cigarettes-and-your-health
- 5 common health problems in adolescence Worrying about our kids’ health is part of being a parent. Learn the signs and symptoms of some of the most common adolescent health concerns – and when to reach out for support. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/common-health-problems-in-adolescence
- Ways to reduce the spread of colds and flu Reduce the spread of germs this winter and feel better with these simple steps. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/managing-cold-and-flu
- 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. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/benefits-of-being-mindful
- 7 steps to stronger mental wellbeing While good mental health is essential for all women, so is good mental wellbeing, and it’s important to understand the difference. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/mental-health/mental-wellbeing
- 7 steps to stronger mental wellbeing for women How you connect with others, respond to stress and your general outlook on life are all linked to your mental wellbeing. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/mental-wellbeing
- Pet insurance: What are you covered for? Worrying about expensive vet bills when your pet is unwell is stressful and can impact decisions you make about their care. Here’s how pet insurance can help. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/family/pet-insurance
- Can alcohol cause anxiety and depression? Alcohol and mental health problems are closely linked – and each can make the other worse. Learn how to recognise the signs and where to go for support. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/can-alcohol-cause-anxiety
- How to make the most of your extras over Getting the most out of your extras covers means more money saved, and a boost to your family’s health and wellbeing. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/private-health-insurance/value-from-extras-cover
- Fight travel fatigue with running When you travel for business, running helps you shake off the effects of the journey and get to know your new surroundings. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/work/fight-travel-fatigue-with-running
- Why cardiac rehab is key to recovery from a heart event Innovative cardiac rehabilitation programs are helping to bring healthy heart (and mind) benefits to more people who need it. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/cardiac-rehabilitation-heart-attack-recovery
- HOW POSITIVE THINKING CAN IMPACT YOUR HEALTH Could positive thinking help you recover from illness faster, or support you in reaching your health goals? A growing body of research says yes. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/positive-thinking
- How to stop the habit of drinking alcohol Find yourself pouring a drink without giving it a moment’s thought? It might be time to change your relationship or knock that alcohol habit on the head. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/alcohol-drinking-habits
- 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. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/men-alcohol-issues
- Surgery recovery: Preparation is key What can you do before your upcoming surgery to put your body in the best position for a strong recovery? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/can-prehab-prepare-you-for-surgery
- How to manage menopause weight gain Many women find themselves gaining kilos during perimenopause and menopause, but with the right diet you can stay at a healthy weight and boost your health for years to come. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/perimenopause-menopause/menopause-weight-gain
- Healthcare for an ageing population How Australian healthcare will meet the challenge of providing for the increasing number of people living longer. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/healthcare-for-an-ageing-population
- The future of virtual reality in medicine It sounds like the stuff of science fiction: bionic eyes, lifelike ‘pregnant’ mannequins, technology where specialists can practise delicate microrobotic cell injections without any real cells involved... https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/VR-in-medicine
- ECO-ANXIETY: ARE NATURAL DISASTERS CAUSING OUR CHILDREN TO WORRY? Here’s how you can help reduce you children’s eco-anxiety about climate change and give them the confidence to take steps towards a brighter future. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/eco-anxiety-children
- 5 preventable health conditions You can improve your quality of life every day through healthy eating, exercise and vaccinations. Here are 5 preventable health issues you can address today. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/five-preventable-health-conditions
- Super Netball star Kiera Austin: “How I’m preparing for life after sport” Although she’s playing at the top of her game, this dynamic athlete is carefully planning her next career move and developing her passion for women’s health. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/super-netball-kiera-austin
- How to fit 5 hours of exercise into your busy week Carving out time to hit the recommended daily amount of exercise doesn’t have to be challenging. Here’s how to build your endurance up every week. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/5-hours-exercise
- How nanotechnology is revolutionising medicine To the naked eye, the little square of silicon looks smaller than a standard postage stamp and only slightly more interesting. The modest Nanopatch, designed in Australia, doesn’t look like something that might revolutionise our fight against infectious diseases. But it’s what you can’t see that matters in the field of nanotechnology. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/how-nanotechnology-is-revolutionising-medicine
- Best treatments for insomnia in women Women are more likely to experience insomnia than men, due to hormones and higher rates of anxiety and depression. Struggling to sleep? Here are some expert tips. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/conditions/insomnia-treatment
- How To Co-Parent With An Alcoholic Partner We talk to addiction psychiatrist Dr Vicky Phan about how to co-parent with an alcoholic and build a healthy family environment. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/co-parenting-with-an-alcoholic
- Growing up as a child of an alcoholic Mum of three, Natalie* shares her story about being a child of an alcoholic, how it impacted her life and how it’s changed her as a person. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/child-of-an-alcoholic
- How to start running 5km: a beginner's guide Want to be a runner but don’t know how to start? Athlete Turia Pitt shares her tips for getting started with running. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/start-running-5km
- How to start running 5km: a beginner's guide Want to be a runner but don’t know how to start? Athlete Turia Pitt shares her tips for getting started with running. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/how-to-start-running-5km
- 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. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/mens-mental-health
- Super Netball star Tilly McDonell on her positive body image This dynamic defender is all about training for strength and speed, and keeping her mental discipline as sharp as her ball skills. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/super-netball-tilly-mcdonell
- How to look after your mental health during your IVF journey Fertility treatment increases your risk of mental health problems. Looking after your wellbeing can help you ride out the highs and lows of your IVF journey. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/fertility-ivf/how-to-protect-your-mental-health-during-IVF
- Falls in the elderly: Can you prevent them? We talk to experts about the variations in e-cigarettes and examine the research around vaping side effects. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/fall-prevention-for-elderly-people
- Why do you get sick when you take a break? Getting ill the moment your holiday starts is common. We find out how to leave the stress and germs at home so you can enjoy your break. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/play/sick-when-you-take-break
- Menopause: Is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) safe? There’s a lot of confusion around the safety of hormone replacement therapy. We weigh up the evidence. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/perimenopause-menopause/is-hormone-replacement-therapy-safe
- EYE HEALTH IN SAFE HANDS HCF’s Kris Dang explains why we opened our first HCF Eyecare centre in 1992 and how high-quality eye care and the experience in our centres keep members coming back. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/HCF-eyecare-centres
- 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. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/how-to-manage-stress
- Flip – Australia’s first on-demand injury cover From a white-water rafting adventure, to a few days on the slopes, or a quick surf after work. Flip is Australia’s first on-demand injury insurance, offering quick, simple cover that fits your lifestyle, whether it’s for a week or just the weekend. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/private-health-insurance/flip-australias-first-on-demand-injury-insurance
- 8 ways to improve your financial wellbeing Understanding your financial wellbeing can help you take control of your money. Follow these eight tips from the experts to take the stress out of cash management. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/work/help-financial-health
- The benefits of spending time outdoors when you travel Spending time outdoors benefits your mental and physical health. Get active on your next holiday with these fun outdoor adventure activities. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/family/health-benefits-doing-outdoor-activities
- 7 ways to stay healthy on holidays Wondering how to stay healthy on holidays? Keeping your exercise goals on track while you’re travelling is easier than you might think. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/play/how-to-stay-healthy-on-holidays
- Skiing for beginners: tips for planning your first ski holiday Never been skiing before? Here’s what you need to know to plan your first ski holiday in Australia. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/play/skiing-for-beginners
- Why resistance training is essential for women at every age Resistance training is a key part of staying healthy for women at all stages – but older Aussies aren’t hitting their quota. Here’s how to integrate it into your daily life. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/resistance-training
- How you could prevent a stroke What is a stroke? And how could you prevent a stroke? Here are stroke risk factors, stroke signs to watch for, treatment and more, with expert advice. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/how-to-prevent-a-stroke
- Why you should learn CPR In just 15 minutes you can learn skills that could save a life. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/giving-back/why-you-should-learn-cpr
- 6 TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR LABOUR FROM A MIDWIFE Getting your body and mind ready to give birth will help you feel more prepared. We ask a midwife for her tips on preparing for labour. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/pregnancy-birth-perinatal/preparing-labour
- Alcohol and sleep: what are the possible side effects? Do you often have a drink to help you nod off? Alcohol and sleep don't mix. Find out what the possible side effects are, how it can impact the quality of your sleep in the long term and other health risks you need to be aware of. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/alcohol-affecting-sleep
- Diabetes program: How it’s helped Joseph’s type 2 diabetes Our diabetes management program with coaching support has helped Joseph make a life-changing step in his health and wellbeing journey. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/diabetes-management-program
- Bowel cancer: symptoms, screening and treatments Early signs of bowel cancer aren’t obvious for most people – that’s why bowel cancer screening is essential to ensure the best chance of treatment success. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/bowel-cancer-symptoms
- Self-care tips and sleep habits to avoid Christmas stress Self-care tips and healthy sleep habits can help you find balance, calm and enjoy one of the busiest times of the year. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/self-care-tips
- Your camping safety checklist for a safer family holiday As thousands of Aussie families plan to go camping for their holidays this summer, it pays to be ready with camping safety in mind. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/play/camping-safety-checklist-tips
- Inpatient vs outpatient – what's the difference? We explain the difference between inpatient and outpatient hospital services – what these terms mean when you go to hospital. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/private-health-insurance/inpatient-vs-outpatient-services
- Informed clinical consent: what you need to know What does clinical consent mean for your health care? Plus how you ensure you’re fully informed about your procedure and any extra costs. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/private-health-insurance/informed-clinical-consent
- What is chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is the most common way to treat cancer. We find out what happens during chemotherapy treatment including side effects and how it’s administered. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/what-is-chemotherapy
- Prescription meds It starts innocuously enough. You have your wisdom teeth out and are given an opioid like oxycodone for pain relief. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/prescription-medications
- Common signs and symptoms of depression Jenni lived with symptoms of depression for decades before she finally found a way to ask for help. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/mental-health/symptoms-of-depression
- Day hospitals and elective surgery: What you need to know Day hospitals offer specialist services that may be the option for the surgery you’ve been waiting for. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/day-hospital-procedures
- Back Pain: When is it time for surgery? A second opinion may help you feel more informed about your options, even if you’ve got a good relationship with your GP or specialist. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/back-pain-when-time-for-surgery
- Treatment at home: what you need to know about your options We’re giving our eligible members options around the types of treatment available at home to help you stay in control of your health journey and get the help you need, when you need it. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/treatment-at-home
- ENDOMETRIOSIS DIAGNOSIS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Despite being a common condition, an endometriosis diagnosis can take years. But new research initiatives and growing public awareness are giving hope to Aussie women living with the condition. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/endometriosis/diagnosis
- 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? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/reducing-financial-stress
- Do you need to update your private health cover? Get the most out of your cover by making sure your private health insurance is right for you and your life stage. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/private-health-insurance/when-to-update-your-health-insurance-policy
- Joint pain: Why it’s worse for women If your creaky ankles, knees or hips make everyday tasks a challenge, here are some simple ways to ease your joint pain and get your life back on track. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/conditions/joint-pain
- ADHD in adults: Why it’s more common than you think Few of us associate ADHD with adulthood, but many Australians live with the disorder all their lives. In this article, psychiatrist Dr Hugh Morgan explains how to identify and manage adult ADHD symptoms. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/adhd-in-adults
- 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. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/mental-health/how-social-media-affects-body-image
- The worrying rise in men’s body image issues Male body image issues are no longer on the fringe. Many Aussie men are worried about how they look and it's impacting their happiness and mental health. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/male-body-image-issues
- 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. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/mental-health/how-social-media-affects-body-image
- How a health diagnosis changed one man’s outlook on life HCF member Trevor Tyne has faced extreme health challenges, but those events changed his life for the better. Read about his health journey, and how HCF was there to support him. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/rare-condition-changed-my-life
- The importance of oral health Dental hygiene isn’t just about teeth, good oral health can also help prevent a number of diseases. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/the-importance-of-oral-health
- COVID-19 and vaccine questions answered With new developments every day, we understand it can be difficult to keep up with the latest guidelines and health advice around COVID-19 and the vaccine. Find answers to your COVID-19 and vaccine questions. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/covid-vaccine-questions
- REFOCUSING ON HEALTH AFTER HEART ATTACK Despite recovering from a heart attack and working through grief and loss, Gary Kilburn has had a lifelong commitment to his wellbeing. His story shows it’s never too late to look after yourself. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/health-after-heart-attack
- The health benefits of skiing and snowboarding Snowsports are fun and can have great health benefits too. Learn how skiing and snowboarding are good for your bones, joints, muscles, balance, heart and mind. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/benefits-of-snow-sports
- Sleep problems? Here’s how to get better sleep If you have sleep problems, you’re not alone. The good news is there are plenty of simple sleep strategies to help you get better, more restorative sleep – all night long. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/sleep-problems
- PERSONALISED HEALTH SUPPORT FOR MEMBERS In 2009, HCF launched My Health Guardian, our award-winning chronic disease management program which helped more than 50,000 Australians. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/research-and-insights/chronic-disease-management
- How to be a good netball coach: Meet the regular dad who became a courtside hero Coaching young netballers is a tough gig. It’s even harder when you’re not an expert on the game of netball. Meet Wayne; the sport-loving WA dad who became a netball coach and courtside hero. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/netball/how-to-coach-netball
- How to be a good netball coach: Meet the regular dad who became a courtside hero Coaching young netballers is a tough gig. It’s even harder when you’re not an expert on the game of netball. Meet Wayne; the sport-loving WA dad who became a netball coach and courtside hero. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/family/coaching-netball
- How to be a good netball coach: Meet the regular dad who became a courtside hero Coaching young netballers is a tough gig. It’s even harder when you’re not an expert on the game of netball. Meet Wayne; the sport-loving WA dad who became a netball coach and courtside hero. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/work-life/family/coaching-netball
- Sleep apnoea: symptoms, causes and how it affects your health Sleep apnoea can have a big impact on your everyday wellbeing and long-term health. The condition is highly treatable, starting with lifestyle changes. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/what-is-sleep-apnoea
- Why you should join the Healthy Weight for Life program For people with type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis and heart conditions, losing weight can turn around your health. Here’s how HCF’S Healthy Weight For Life program can make that happen. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/why-join-healthy-weight-for-life
- “The kit we can’t win without”: Super Netballers’ favourite sports gear Whether you’re a professional athlete or just playing sports for fun, the right netball shoes and equipment can make the difference between a good game and a great result. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/netball-equipment
- Super Netball stars talk about their female heroes Some of Australia’s brightest netball stars share stories of the women who inspire them, on and off the court. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/strong/netball-female-heroes
- 11 types of dental health specialists Dentists aren’t the only oral health experts – there’s a whole host of professionals helping to look after your teeth. Here’s an explainer of who’s who in dental health. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/treatments-and-procedures/whos-who-in-dental-health
- The facts about sugar https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/the-facts-about-sugar
- How many kilojoules do you need to lose weight? Experts explain what kilojoules are, where you should get yours from and how many you need to maintain or lose weight. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/food-diet/nutrition/are-kilojoules-equal
- The signs of asthma Australia has one of the highest rates of asthma in the world. We discuss the symptoms and triggers, and how to manage the condition. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/the-signs-asthma
- Getting pregnant with endometriosis Many women with endometriosis are able to conceive, and help is on hand for those navigating endometriosis and fertility. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/women/endometriosis/pregnancy-fertility
- Getting pregnant with endometriosis: Fertility facts Getting pregnant with endometriosis is a reality for many women. It can affect fertility, but there is help on hand for those navigating the disorder. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/endometriosis/pregnancy-and-fertility
- 4 fatigue fighters for sleepless nights Feeling sluggish, sleepy or worn out from a bad night’s sleep? Revive your flagging energy with these instant pick-me-ups. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/body-mind/physical-health/four-fatigue-fighters-for-sleepless-nights
- Eczema: types, triggers and treatment Eczema: what are the most common types, what is eczema caused by and how can eczema be treated? https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/eczema
- Could you have a dust mite allergy? Dust mites are a common allergen, but for the squeamish among us, they’re not a pleasant thought. Here’s what you can do if you think you’re allergic to dust mites. https://www.hcf.com.au/health-agenda/health-care/common-conditions/dust-mite-allergy