Skip to main content
Category

Mental Health

May 25
Love0

The Importance of Mental Health Support for New Mothers

By Family Planning & Parenting, Mental Health, Women's Health

Becoming a mother can bring significant emotional, physical and lifestyle changes. While many women experience moments of stress, overwhelm or uncertainty after having a baby, ongoing emotional difficulties may affect day-to-day wellbeing and should not be ignored.

Mental health support for new mothers can involve early assessment, practical strategies, ongoing care and referral to additional services where appropriate. Speaking with a GP through our Mental Health services can help you better understand what you are experiencing and what support options may be available.

Key Takeaways

  • Emotional changes after having a baby are common and can affect women differently
  • Mental health support may help new mothers manage stress, anxiety or low mood
  • A GP can assess symptoms and discuss available support options
  • Early conversations about mental health can help guide appropriate care
  • Support may include counselling, lifestyle strategies, referrals or ongoing follow-up

Why can mental health change after having a baby?

The weeks and months after childbirth involve major physical, emotional and lifestyle adjustments. Hormonal changes, interrupted sleep, feeding challenges, recovery after birth and changing routines can all affect emotional wellbeing.

Some women may experience temporary emotional changes often referred to as the “baby blues”, while others may experience symptoms that are more persistent or difficult to manage. Every experience is different, and there is no single “normal” way to feel after becoming a parent.

What signs may suggest additional support could help?

New mothers may benefit from mental health support if they experience ongoing symptoms such as:

  • Persistent sadness or low mood
  • Anxiety or excessive worry
  • Difficulty sleeping beyond usual newborn disruptions
  • Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally withdrawn
  • Changes in appetite or energy levels
  • Difficulty coping with day-to-day activities

A GP can help assess these symptoms in the context of your overall health and circumstances.

How can a GP support new mothers?

A GP can provide a supportive environment to discuss emotional wellbeing after having a baby. This may include assessment of symptoms, discussion of contributing factors and guidance around available support options.

Depending on your needs, support may involve:

  • Mental health care planning
  • Referral to counselling or psychology services
  • Lifestyle and wellbeing strategies
  • Follow-up appointments and ongoing monitoring

If required, your GP may also coordinate care with other health professionals.

What happens during a mental health appointment?

A mental health appointment usually begins with a conversation about how you have been feeling emotionally and physically since becoming a parent. Your GP may ask about sleep, stress levels, support networks, mood changes and daily functioning.

The appointment is designed to help you discuss concerns openly and understand what support options may be appropriate for your situation. Follow-up appointments may be recommended depending on your needs.

When should new mothers seek support?

There is no “right” time to ask for help. Some women seek support soon after birth, while others may notice changes gradually over time.

If emotional or mental health concerns are affecting your wellbeing, relationships or ability to cope with daily activities, it may be helpful to speak with a GP. Early support can help you better understand what you are experiencing and what care options are available.

Mental health support at HealthMint

GPs who consult at HealthMint provide mental health support as part of comprehensive primary healthcare for women and families.

You can also learn more about our Women’s Health Clinic and Family Planning and Pregnancy services.

If you would like to discuss your mental health or emotional wellbeing after having a baby, you can book an appointment with a GP.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting to life as a new parent can affect every woman differently. Mental health support is not only for times of crisis. It can also help you better understand emotional changes, build coping strategies and access appropriate care when needed.To learn more about HealthMint and our approach to patient care, visit our About Us page.

Oct 20
Love0
Cranbourne aerial image

Finding the Best GP in Cranbourne: Your Comprehensive Guide

By Body Systems, Children's Health, Featured, General Wellbeing, Lifestyle, Men's Health, Mental Health, Women's Health

Finding the Best GP in Cranbourne: Your Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right General Practitioner (GP) is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your healthcare journey. A GP is often the first point of contact for any health-related concerns and plays a pivotal role in maintaining your overall well-being. This guide is specifically tailored for residents in Cranbourne, VIC, Australia, to help you make an informed decision when selecting a GP. If you’ve ever asked how to find a good GP or what your options are for choosing a GP then this is the guide for you!

Understanding the Importance of a Good GP

A reliable GP is an invaluable asset in your healthcare journey. They are responsible for diagnosing illnesses, providing treatments, and referring you to specialists when necessary. Having a trustworthy GP in Cranbourne ensures that you receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The Role of a GP in Your Healthcare Team

A GP serves as the cornerstone of your healthcare team. They are responsible for your primary care, which includes preventive health, chronic disease management, and general health advice. Their role is especially central in Cranbourne, given the area’s growing healthcare infrastructure.

Why Cranbourne Residents Should Prioritise Finding a Good GP

Being part of one of Melbourne’s biggest growth corridors, Cranbourne has a burgeoning healthcare ecosystem, making it even more essential for residents to have a local GP. A local GP can provide timely care and understands the specific healthcare needs and challenges of the Cranbourne community.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a GP in Cranbourne

When selecting a GP, several factors should be considered, each of which has its own importance in the context of Cranbourne.

Proximity and Accessibility

Given Cranbourne’s layout and traffic conditions (hello roundabouts and road works!), finding a GP nearby can save you valuable time. Consider the availability of public transportation and parking when making your choice. At HealthMint we are fortunate to have a large carpark next to our clinic in Cranbourne, and patients love the convenience of quick and easy parking!

GP’s Expertise and Specialisation

It’s essential to choose a GP whose skills and interests align with your healthcare needs. Cranbourne boasts a variety of clinics and GPs with diverse specializations, so take the time to research and find the right fit. For example, the various GPs who consult at HealthMint Cranbourne’s interests include the following:

  • Mental Health
  • Complex chronic disease management
  • Skin – including mole removal
  • Pregnancy planning and shared care
  • IUD and Implanon insertion and removal
  • Children’s health
  • Men’s and Women’s health
  • Iron infusions

The Importance of Practice Accreditation

One often overlooked but crucial factor in choosing a GP is the accreditation status of the practice. Accreditation is a quality assurance process that medical practices undergo to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining high standards of care. In Cranbourne, as in other parts of Australia, accredited practices have met specific benchmarks for quality, safety, and service delivery. When you choose a GP from an accredited practice, you can be confident that the clinic has been rigorously evaluated and meets or exceeds industry standards. This not only ensures that you receive the best possible care but also adds an extra layer of trust and reliability to your healthcare experience. Therefore, always inquire about the practice’s accreditation status when considering a new GP.

Leveraging Reviews and Recommendations

Online reviews and personal recommendations can provide valuable insights into a GP’s reputation.

Online Reviews: What Cranbourne Locals are Saying

Local forums and community boards often feature reviews and recommendations for GPs in Cranbourne. These platforms can offer firsthand accounts of patient experiences.

Where to Find Trustworthy Reviews: HealthMint’s Online Reputation

If you’re looking for firsthand accounts of experiences with GPs, online review platforms can be incredibly helpful. HealthMint is proud to have garnered positive reviews on multiple websites, reinforcing our commitment to quality healthcare. You can find verified patient reviews on platforms such as Google My Business, Word of Mouth Online, and Facebook. These reviews offer insights into various aspects of our practice, from the friendliness of our staff and the overall patient experience to the skill or the doctors consulting at HealthMint. We encourage you to explore these reviews to get a comprehensive understanding of what HealthMint has to offer to the Cranbourne community.

Word-of-Mouth: Trusted Recommendations from Cranbourne Residents

Don’t underestimate the power of a personal recommendation. Ask friends, family, or neighbours for their experiences and suggestions.

Making Your Final Decision

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary information, it’s time to make your final decision.

Setting Up an Initial Appointment

Before committing, set up an initial appointment to assess the GP’s suitability. Pay attention to the clinic’s environment, the staff’s professionalism, and the GP’s approach to care.

We offer Cranbourne residents the ability to book online and encourage new patient’s to give the doctors that work at our Cranbourne clinic a try!

Trusting Your Instincts

Your comfort and trust in your GP are paramount. If something feels off during your initial visit, it might be worth considering other options, including a different doctor in the same practice.

Make A Booking With a GP who Consults at HealthMint Cranbourne Today!

Choosing the right GP is a significant decision that should not be rushed. Take your time, do your research, and make an informed choice that suits your healthcare needs best. Cranbourne residents, your health is too important to leave to chance. Make a booking with one of the GPs who consult at HealthMint Cranbourne today to start your journey towards better health.

Mar 18
Love0
what to expect when seeing a psychologist at healthmint cranbourne croydon

What to Expect When Seeing a Psychologist

By Featured, Mental Health

Are you going to see a psychologist for the first time? Congratulations on taking an important step towards improving your mental health and making it a priority!

Why Might I Choose to See a Psychologist?

You might visit a psychologist for help with concerns  such as:

  1. Depression, anxiety or stress
  2. Drug and alcohol abuse
  3. Eating disorders
  4. Fears and phobias
  5. Low self esteem
  6. Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

A psychologist can also help you deal with challenges you may face in life such as:

  1. Relationship issues and breakdowns 
  2. Financial stress
  3. Grief or loss
  4. Domestic violence 
  5. Ageing 
  6. Situations in your social life, with family or work 

Note that not all psychologists treat the same presentations or age groups. Please see our FAQ’s regarding psychologists and review individual practitioner bios for more information.

 

What is it Like to See a Psychologist? 

You may be feeling nervous about coming to see a psychologist and the fear of being judged or not connecting with the psychologist can be daunting. The important thing to remember is that you have taken the first, and sometimes hardest step already – reaching out for help. 

A psychologist is there to help and support your journey of developing a better mind space for yourself. Here’s a brief outline on what to expect in general, noting that each psychologist may take a variation of this approach, and this can be discussed in your first visit.

 

First and Second Appointment: Assessment 

If you’ve been referred by your GP they will write on your Mental Health Care plan why they have referred you to a psychologist.  You will also be asked to explain in your own words what you would like your psychologist to help you with.

The first and second session will include specific questions about your past and current difficulties and you will be given some forms to fill out to see what symptoms are present and how severe they are. 

what to expect when seeing a psychologist at healthmint cranbourne croydon

Third Appointment: Treatment Planning 

You will be given information about your symptoms and possible diagnosis, as well as an understanding about what may be contributing to it. A plan is made together to move towards positive change and you will be given strategies to start to use in the following weeks. These typically include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other evidence based techniques. Your psychologist will make suggestions as to what tools and resources will help you achieve your treatment goals, and guide you to seeking other services if needed.

 

Fourth Appointment Onwards: 

The new practices you have been taught are monitored and sustainable changes begin to be made.

 

Before Coming to Your First Psychology Appointment Please Think About:

  1. What would you like help with from a psychologist?
  2. What do you want to see change?
  3. What is your goal of undertaking psychological treatment? (Note that this may not be the same as the doctors/referrers goal)
  4. How will you know if treatment is working?

 

This will be talked about in your first two sessions to help plan your treatment.

 

Keeping your GP Updated, and Requests for Letters or Reports

Your GP will be updated after the sixth session on your treatment progress. If you would like to continue seeing a psychologist they can give you a Review which allows you to access more sessions, in accordance with Medicare regulations.

Please note: Many psychologists require clients to attend at least three appointments if requiring a letter or report, and these incur extra charges.

Summary of the Benefits of Seeing a Psychologist

A wonderful benefit of seeing a psychologist is having somewhere safe to open up about your feelings, experiences, worries and concerns. Remember seeing a psychologist is a confidential environment to discuss what’s bothering you with an objective ear – someone who does not judge you, and who has a vested interest in your well being. 

Seeing a psychologist shouldn’t have a stigma attached to it. It means you are taking your mental health seriously, and everyone can benefit from seeing a psychologist at different times in their lives. 

 

To book an appointment with one of the Independent GPs who consult at HealthMint to discuss mental health, please click here.

Oct 01
Love0
anxiety and tips to cope

Anxiety Symptoms and Tips to Cope

By Men's Health, Mental Health, Women's Health No Comments

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is something that everyone experiences to varying degrees. Many people think that anxiety is just panic attacks and a sick feeling in your stomach, which it is, but it can also be so much more than that:

  • It can be the perfectionist tendencies
  • It can be your procrastination
  • It can be the thoughts that everyone is staring at you and judging you
  • It’s the hot and cold flushes
  • It’s the fear that you’ll say something wrong and look stupid.
  • Thinking that a potentially bad situation is going to be the end of the world
  • It’s feeling tired, weak and having trouble concentrating
  • It’s feeling fidgety and restless
  • It’s avoiding places and situations that you believe are going to cause you anxiety

Tips to cope with Anxiety

There are many effective ways to cope with feelings of anxiety:

  • First cab off the rank is the classic, and always in fashion, deep breathing.
  • Taking some slow and long deep breaths can help regulate your system, and decrease the feelings of anxiety.

If you struggle to take some slow, deep breaths, maybe try the 4-7-8 technique.

What is the 4-7-8 technique?

The 4-7-8 breathing technique (touted by integrative medicine expert Andrew Weil, MD) is thought to help reduce nervousness and stress, calm anxiety, and help people drift off to sleep more quickly.

It can actually change the speed at which your heart beats and promote the effective pumping of blood to various organs and muscles. Here’s how (and why) to do it.

  1. Breath in for four seconds through your nose
  2. Hold this breath for 7 seconds
  3. Exhale completely for 8 seconds through your mouth.

This forces the brain to focus on regulating your breathing, rather than your anxious thoughts and feelings.

Talk to yourself (no, seriously, have a chat with yourself).

Often time we let our anxious thoughts go unchecked, they just wash over you without you putting up a fight. When you have a negative or anxious thought, ask yourself: how likely is this to happen?

Lastly, try some grounding techniques. Grounding or mindful techniques help you stay present, focused on what is around you, and out of your head. 

  • Ask yourself, what are:
    • 5 things you can see
    • 4 things you can hear
    • 3 things you can touch
    • 2 things you can smell
    • 1 thing you can taste
  • If you’re around people, ask yourself questions about them, such as:
    • What is their favourite movie, food, celebrity
    • What is their superpower
    • What do they do for a living

Also having tangible things to help ground you can also be really helpful, such as a stress ball. Keep your mind focused on what the stress ball feels like in your hand, and how your fingers tense when squashing it and how they relax when you let the stress ball go.   

If you’re feeling like your anxiety is becoming overwhelming and it is difficult to cope, please reach out to your GP, organise to see a Psychologist or give a call to the many great support lines that are out there:

Beyond Blue: 1300-222 4636

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Sep 03
Love0
woman practicing breathing techniques in nature and being mindful

Getting Started with Mindfulness

By General Wellbeing, Mental Health No Comments

What is mindfulness?

 

Originating from ancient Eastern traditions, mindfulness is essentially trying to connect our mind to the present moment, non-judgmentally.

However, when our mind swings from the past to the future, and back again, it can rarely have a chance to rest in the present.

Why can this be unhelpful for mindfulness?

 

When we recall painful memories/regrets, or worries for the future, we feel the horrible feelings that come with it and can’t do anything to change it.

We have no control over what has already happened or what is to be. Our power and control rests solely in the present moment.

What does being in a state of mindfulness feel like?

mindfulness words in a wave illustration

 

If you think about the moments when you feel most calm and at peace, it is usually when you’re completely engaged in the moment, free from unhelpful self-talk and stress.

It might be feeling the breeze on your face when you are outside, enjoying a hot shower, or being engrossed in a hobby.

Your whole being is involved and engaged in the moment, body and mind.

This integrated state is so different to what we are used to – driving home from work and thinking about dinner, on a zoom call but wishing you were talking to your friends and talking to your friends with your mind on housework!

How can mindfulness be achieved in daily life?

 

Try an activity where you can actively connect with your body:

  1. Laying on your back in bed/on the couch, feeling the rise and fall of your breath in your abdomen and chest.
  2. Body scan. Work your way slowly up from your feet to your forehead, simply noticing the sensations in each part. You can take this a step further by intentionally tightening and loosening muscle groups (progressive muscle relaxation)
  3. Taking a deep breath, stretching your hands up to the ceiling, and exhaling slowly allowing your arms to rest gently by your sides. This can be repeated for a few minutes

mother and daughter practicing yoga pose in the loungroom

Make the most of nature:

 The outdoors is an easy space for us to feel connected with our senses and trying to get outside when the weather is good can be helpful.

Use your senses to engage in the moment – what can you hear? See? Touch?

When we feel stressed and overwhelmed, trying to ask ourselves “What is under my control right now?”

These are simple practices we can all try no matter where we are, the aim being to make it more than a ‘practice’ but an awareness that can benefit our lives.

mindfulness woman in nature holding out her arms

 

To see where you are at in your mindfulness journey, you can try this simple questionnaire called Mindful Attention Awareness Scale 

Smiling Mind can support your (and your family’s mental health throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. They offer a FREE daily mindfulness and meditation app and guide at your fingertips. You can learn more about them here

Dec 12
Love0
the importance of mental health scrabble tiles healthmint cranbourne medical centre

The Importance of Mental Health

By Lifestyle, Mental Health No Comments

What is mental health and why is it so important?

Mental health is important during every stage of life – from childhood to adulthood. Understanding the importance of mental health is vital to optimising all aspects of wellbeing. Mental health is inclusive of our psychological, emotional and social wellbeing.

Mental Health affects how we think, feel and act, and therefore is directly linked to how we handle stress and the situations life throws our way. Working towards a healthy mind is a lot about unlearning our unhelpful ways of thinking/behaving, and learning helpful ways to manage stressors. 

The World Health Organisation defines good mental health as “a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”

How to improve mental health

We can improve our mental health by taking care of our body (eating healthy, getting enough sleep, slowing down), connecting with others (friends/family/community), and spending time doing things we enjoy.  Maintaining a gratitude journal and working towards achieving a goal can also help us feel positive and motivated.

Seeking professional support can be helpful at times when things are overwhelming, and psychologists can help equip you with skills to better manage stress, low mood, and relationships. 

Here are several ways you can take steps to improve your mental health today:woman happy with her mental health healthmint

  1. Exercise
  2. Eating well
  3. Going to bed on time
  4. Writing down something you are grateful for
  5. Be positive to yourself
  6. Open up to someone you trust
  7. Do an act of kindness or to be helpful
  8. Knowing your limits and taking a break

What is a mental health plan?

A mental health care plan is something you can complete with your GP if you are experiencing mental health issues. It involves collaboratively forming goals with your GP, and receiving a referral to a psychologist for 6 sessions.

These 6 sessions allow you to receive a medicare rebate per session, and ensures a multidisciplinary and comprehensive approach to your care. Individuals are entitled to 10 medicare rebates per calendar year for individual psychology sessions.

importance of mental health

How can exercise improve mental health?

  • Exercise releases endorphins and serotonin that improve your mood.
  • It gets you out of the house and into the community –  encouraging connections with others and reducing feelings of loneliness/isolation.
  • It helps regulate your sleep so you can have a good nights rest which helps to make you feel more energised during the day.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns call Lifeline on 13 11 14

If you would like to book to speak with a GP about your mental health, please click here.

Want more information?

Call (03) 5611 3365 to speak to a friendly patient concierge

or book an appointment here
Oct 23
Love0
morning yoga healthmint

8 Benefits of Exercise

By Body Systems, Chronic Disease, Chronic Pain, Diabetes, General Wellbeing, Lifestyle, Men's Health, Mental Health, Women's Health No Comments

Living a healthy lifestyle can be beneficial to your health, prevent some illnesses and diseases and can help to improve your mental health! Here we look into 8 benefits of exercise. 

1. Exercise boosts and benefits your mood

One of the most common mental benefits of exercise is stress relief. Exercise helps to block negative thoughts and distracts from daily worries and stresses. It  only releases the levels of, but also increases the levels of chemicals like serotonin and endorphins that can moderate responses to stress. It’s a win win!

benefits of exercise improve mood healthmint 2. Exercise assists in weight loss and helps prevent unhealthy weight gain

Exercise is extremely helpful in the journey of weight loss and weight management. Exercise speeds up metabolism, and increased activity levels increases the body’s fuel consumption (calories).

Regular physical activity combined with a healthy diet will increase the chances of weight loss.

8 benefits of exercise control weight loss healthmint3. Exercise reduces the risk of and helps to manage cardiovascular disease, reduce risk of heart attack, lower blood cholesterol, lower blood pressure

Regular physical activity can greatly reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure and can actually also help to lower blood pressure! Lowering the levels of cholesterol and keeping your arteries clear of fatty deposits by undertaking regular exercise can reduce the chances of heart attacks and strokes.

8 benefits of exercise cardiovascular health heart healthmint4. Social interaction and exercise go hand-in-hand

Find an exercise buddy – grab a friend or family member and hit the pavement. Let’s face it, exercise is more fun with someone and it works both ways to motivate each other and keeps each other’s exercise goals in check.

8 benefits of exercise socialising healthmint5. Build strong muscles and bones

Exercise that involves weight bearing like walking, stair climbing, weightlifting helps to preserve bone mass which can help protect against osteoporosis. Exercise also builds and strengthens muscles which in turn protects the bones from injury and support and protect the jones that might be susceptible to or affected by arthritis. It also improves the blood supply to muscles and can help prevent age related loss of muscle mass.

8 benefits of exercise strong kids dad family healthmint

6. Reduce the risk and help manage Type 2 Diabetes

For those with Type 2 Diabetes, physical exercise is a critical party of the treatment plan. Exercise can reduce the glucose in your blood! It helps with keeping blood glucose levels in check and in the correct range. Controlling blood glucose levels is essential in combating long term complications such as heart problems.

7. Exercise helps with sleep quality and benefits energy levels

When you exercise, your body naturally depletes its energy stores which helps when trying to fall asleep. When exercising, you may have longer, deeper and greater quality sleeps which helps make you feel more energised throughout the day. Around 30 minutes of exercise is all it can take for a better nights sleep and more energised days!

8 benefits of exercise boost mood aid sleep healthmint8. Lower the risk of falls with exercise

Exercise is a proven way to prevent falls by improving balance and strengthening the muscles that keep us upright.  As we get older, a fear of falling may limit the decision to want to undertake exercise – but this can have a damaging affect and actually increase the risks of developing chronic diseases and the probability of falls.

Of course, there are many more reasons other than these 8 benefits of exercise to consider. Being regularly physically active will always have positive effects on your mind, body and soul, it’s just about finding the types of exercise that suits you and your lifestyle, setting small, achievable goals to start off with, and building up the process of becoming a healthier, happier YOU!

Before undergoing any new types of exercise make sure you have a medical check from your GP – you can book an appointment here with one of the Independent GPs who consult at HealthMint. This will help to get you started on your journey to great health and on your way to your fitness and exercise goals.

May 30
Love0
display of healthy foods diet healthmint

Food and Diet For Symptoms of Depression

By Chronic Disease, Diabetes, Mental Health, Nutrition No Comments

Food and diet changes that help with symptoms of depression

As well as aiding in weight loss, food and diet changes can also have a positive impact on the symptoms of depression.

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health illnesses throughout the world.

A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine showed that those who change their diet may see a greater improvement in the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Foods that put you in a good mood!

Various vitamins, fatty acids, minerals and fibre consumed as part of a healthy diet could also impact the brain and help to improve mood.

The following foods and nutrients may play a role in reducing the symptoms of depression:

  • Whole grains
  • Nuts
  • Seafoods
  • Oily fish
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
display of healthy foods diet healthmint

Ditch the junk food!

While we have established that a healthy diet can help to improve mood, an unhealthy diet can have the opposite affect.

While it’s okay to have the occasional treat or overindulge sometimes, it’s the long term unhealthy diets that contain lots of foods that are very high in energy (calories) and low on nutrition. Here’s a list of foods to limit:

  • Fried foods
  • Butter
  • Salt
  • Sugary snacks and drinks
  • Take away foods
  • Processed foods and meats
  • White breads, cakes and pastries
donut unhealthy food diets

Don’t forget to exercise too!

It’s well documented that the inclusion of regular exercise into your routine can have a dramatic impact on your mental health. So while you’re eating better, move better too!

Taking small steps on your journey to good health doesn’t have to be daunting – begin with a walk around the block, and gradually increase as your fitness levels do. Exercise releases endorphins, which help keep you happy!

Small dietary changes can make a big difference in how you feel over time.

Not only can they help improve your mood, but they also keep you healthy for many other reasons!

eat more of what makes you happy
Jan 03
Love0
health benefits going outside healthmint medical clinic

The Health Benefits of Going Outside

By General Wellbeing, Lifestyle, Men's Health, Mental Health, Women's Health No Comments

The Health Benefits of Going Outside

Most of us have been told since childhood that “getting fresh air” is important for a healthy mind and body. While there are many common myths used in parenting, spending time outside actually is extremely important to maintain health. Here are some reasons why it’s important to get out of your usual four walls.

Physical Benefits

One of the best things about getting outside is that it can actually benefit your physical body. Studies that looked at campers who spent two nights in the forest compared to people who had spent those nights in an urban environment showed the campers had a lower heartrate and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Inflammation in the body can have a range of negative effects over the long term, and people who spend time outside have been shown to have lower levels of inflammation.

Sleep Better

These lower levels of stress, inflammation and resting heart rate combine to give people who have spent time outside a better sleep. If you are struggling to get a good night’s sleep, finding time during the day to take advantage of natural light and natural surroundings could help you to calm down and doze off.

Feel Better

Going outside can reduce anxiety and counteract seasonal depression. Even working indoors with natural light from a window is beneficial to a person’s mental state, creating mood elevation and increasing alertness and concentration. Spending time in natural surrounds can have a significant impact on people experiencing depression and anxiety, helping them to calm and improve their mood.

Boost Creativity

Studies into people who spend time in nature find they experience a boost in creativity. While the improved sleep and mental clarity certainly helps, studies have shown that a single walk outside can measurably improve creativity.

Get Fit

While just getting some light and fresh air is a great place to start, pairing it with some exercise enhances the benefits even further. Going for a run, swimming, cycling or doing yoga in a park –most communities have a huge range of activities available to incentivise you to leave the house, and they could be very low cost or even free!

Meet New People

One thing your lounge room is very unlikely to have is new people to meet, but the outdoors is likely to have many. Find an activity that will allow you to meet new people, and you can add the benefits of healthy socialisation with the other improvements for your mind and body. Many communities host events and clubs, such as Park Runs, fishing clubs, nature walks, photography and art classes, exercise groups. Websites like MeetUp.com can help you connect with people who share similar interests and provide further incentives to leave the house.

If you’re struggling with feeling down, sleep problems, stress or anxiety, prioritise some outdoors time every day to help you feel calm and centred. If getting outside is not enough, you might need to chat to your GP. Even if you do need some extra help, lifestyle changes can help you feel better – and getting outside is a great place to start.

Want more information?

Call (03) 5611 3365 to speak to a friendly patient concierge

or book an appointment here
Sep 12
Love0

Social Media and your Mental Health

By General Wellbeing, Lifestyle, Men's Health, Mental Health, Women's Health No Comments

Social media and your mental health: Mental health is incredibly important to maintain, and there are many sources that say social media could be impacting our mental health in a negative way. Even Facebook has expressed concern that excess use of social media could be detrimental to people’s health. So what is healthy use of social media, and what are the consequences of not sticking to a moderate level of use?

The benefits of social media

Social sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram allow a degree of connectivity that has never been available before. People can keep up to date with friends in other countries, receive information about current events, products and services, and communicate with new people to learn things and express ideas.

For many people, social media allows them to find like-minded people and feel connected to the world around them. It gives them a chance to express their thoughts, opinions and ideas, and even to seek help. Facebook and other sites can be a great place to share exciting news, and to ask for support when needs arise.

It’s not all good news.

Some studies have shown links between the amounts of time spent on social media and negative body image, difficulty sleeping, symptoms of depression, and eating issues. Some people are even partially blaming an increased suicide rate on the prevalence of social media.

Social media can activate the reward centres of the brain, meaning users can become addicted to getting “likes”. It can also lead to envy and unhealthy comparison between users. Online bullying and trolling experienced via social media can be extremely detrimental to mental health, and there is a flood of information online with little way to verify whether it is true or not, causing people to change their world view based on false assumptions.

What can you do to keep social media use healthy?

Social media doesn’t affect everyone in the same way, so you will have to have an honest look at how your use affects you personally. However, there are some key things everyone can do to make sure social media use doesn’t have a negative impact on their mental health

  • Turn off your phone: There is some worrying data emerging about blue light coming from phones and human health. There is little doubt that it can negatively affect your sleep, and checking social media when you should be sleeping is worse. Make a firm cut-off a few hours before bedtime, and stick to it.
  • Be careful of comparison: It has been said that social media is comparing someone else’s highlight reel to your everyday life. Many people only put the absolute highlights for others to see, so social media is not a good baseline for reality. Comparison is the thief of joy, so don’t let it get you down.
  • Communicate with others: Ultimately social media is designed for people to connect together, so use it for its intended purpose! Use your time on social media to communicate with people and groups that are trustworthy and build you up. It’s good to follow current events, but try to add some light-hearted pages that make you laugh to offset too much bad news.
  • Limit your time: It is definitely possible to have too much of a good thing. Find a balance in your life where you are able to be present, instead of constantly getting lost in social media. If you find yourself checking Facebook, Instagram, then back to Facebook, it might be a sign you need a break. If loved ones are telling you that you spend too much time on your phone – listen to them. If you need help regulating your time, there are plenty of apps that can help you track and/or restrict your usage.

Social media can be very positive if it is used in the right way for a limited amount of time. If you feel caught in a spiral, or if you want to talk to someone about your mental health, your GP is a good place to start. The online world can be a great place, but don’t forget to balance that out with plenty of time in the real world as well.

Want more information?

Call (03) 5611 3365 to speak to a friendly patient concierge

or book an appointment here
Book Now