There’s no better time to focus on health and wellbeing than at the start of a new year. Whether prioritising your wellbeing, quitting smoking, moving your body more or eating healthier – there are plenty of ways to ensure this is one new year resolution you keep!
Chronic conditions are the leading cause of illness, disability and death in Australia and are becoming increasingly common due to our ageing population and changing lifestyles. Western Sydney is a diabetes hotspot with disease rates higher than the New South Wales average, but our community also faces other common chronic conditions such as heart disease and respiratory disease.
Healthy Body
It’s no secret that moving your body is essential to good health and is one of the best ways to reduce the risks or manage chronic disease. Many of us spend long days in front of computers, driving or watching TV – this inactive lifestyle can have a huge impact on our immediate and long-term health by increasing the chances of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes or joint and back pain. Statistics show that nearly half of Australians have at least one chronic condition.
Exercise not only helps improve physical health and reduce the risk of chronic health conditions, but also has mental health benefits, such as improving sleep quality, building relationships and reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Live Life Get Active
Live Life Get Active (LLGA) is an initiative that offers a series of free exercise classes in the community.
The goal for LLGA is to get people moving to improve their fitness levels, become healthier, build up their strength and have fun along the way. Boxing, crosstraining and yoga classes are all provided for free in local parks so that people can enjoy exercising outdoors, Live Life Get Active also offers free online programs such as home workouts and nutritional guides with daily live streams and on-demand videos. As well as the physical health and wellbeing benefits, many participants report that classes have increased their confidence and helped them to make friends in their community.
Find out more about LLGA at wentwest.com.au/chronic-health
Healthy Mind
When we work on strengthening our overall health, it’s important to remember our mental health. Our bodies and minds work together, so it’s not surprising that mental health can affect your body and vice versa.
Over two in five Australians aged 16-85 years will experience a mental illness during their lifetime, and last year, 16,989 people in Western Sydney were diagnosed with a mental health condition.
Prioritising your wellbeing this year is important, so if you think you or someone you know needs support for mental health, remember to reach out.
Find support today
The Western Sydney Primary Health Network commissions services to support people experiencing various mental health challenges. Our services aim to provide free access to mental health support that is culturally appropriate, timely and affordable.
Read more about mental health services available in Western Sydney at wentwest.com.au/MentalHealth
Healthy Western Sydney is delivered by WentWest, the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.
