Mental health

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?

6 DIGITAL MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR MEMBERS

Digital health services have been around for some time, but thanks to COVID-19, they're more popular than ever and go a long way to keeping people connected to their health. Our new 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 MEN: THE UNHEALTHY HABITS AFFECTING MENTAL HEALTH

Australia has developed a drinking culture that plays a central role in many of our social lives. But for some - especially men - drinking rituals can lead to unhealthy habits that can impact our mental health.

Are you drinking too much alcohol?

How do you know when your drinking habits have moved from healthy to harmful? We’ve partnered with not-for-profit organisation, Hello Sunday Morning, to give HCF members the chance to change their relationship with alcohol, one day at a time.

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.

WHAT CAUSES PANIC ATTACKS (AND HOW TO MANAGE THE SYMPTOMS)

Panic attacks are more common than you might expect. Find out what causes panic attacks, what are the signs and how to deal with the symptoms.

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.

How to relax and clear your mind: The healthy side of silence

In our noisy, daily lives it can be hard to find a moment of silence. Here we explore the benefits of clearing your mind 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.

6 daily habits that can make your anxiety worse

Experts explain six daily habits that can make your anxiety worse including mobile phone screen time, drinking too much, relationship problems, not exercising enough and work stress.

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 online and app dating, 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.

ARE THERE DOWNSIDES TO ALWAYS TRYING TO BE POSITIVE?

Looking on the bright side of life might not be helpful in difficult times, with studies showing suppressing emotions can negatively affect our health.

How to survive the festive season

'Tis the season to be jolly. Or is it? With families coming together, financial pressure and expectations rising, for some the holidays can be anything but a happy time.

IS AUTISM ON THE RISE?

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

MOVING THROUGH GRIEF

Whether it’s a death in the family, a marriage break-up or a job loss, grief strikes in varying ways and intensity for all of us.

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.

Eating disorders: 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.

How to manage stress

Reclaim calm with these expert-approved approaches to dealing with stress and anxiety.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

This communication contains information which is copyright to The Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia Limited (HCF). It should not be copied, disclosed or distributed without the authority of HCF. Except as required by law, HCF does not represent, warrant and/or guarantee that this communication is free from errors, virus, interception or interference. All reasonable efforts have been taken to ensure the accuracy of material contained on this website. It’s not intended that this website be comprehensive or render advice. HCF members should rely on authoritative advice they seek from qualified practitioners in the health and medical fields as the information provided on this website is general information only and may not be suitable to individual circumstances or health needs. Please check with your health professional before making any dietary, medical or other health decisions as a result of reading this website.

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