Family and Work Life Balance

Focus on Women's Health

We know good health and wellbeing is important to prevent chronic diseases and long-term illnesses. The World Health Organisation (WHO) emphasises good health is more than the absence of illness; it’s a “state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing”. It is great we are often reminded by professionals to have routine health checks like mammograms and screenings for bowel and cervical cancers. But how about the other two factors in the WHO definition of health? Whilst attending to these important physical tests, I wonder how many of us set time aside to regularly assess the mental and social aspects of wellbeing?

Are you silently whispering never? Well, you’re not alone! The majority of women find themselves time-poor to focus on their needs. When was the last time you were active, slept 7-9 hours, had a healthy meal, and connected with family and friends? How about effectively managing stress, worry and conflict?

This is your reminder to turn the spotlight on yourself – go ahead and make time to have a complete wellness check, grab a coffee with a friend, go for a nature walk and optimise your physical, mental and social wellbeing.

Men's Health Week

June 14th - 21st is a week to shine a light on the importance of health for men.

Did you know, statistically men have higher mortality rates and poorer health outcomes at every stage of life compared to women? Indeed, research shows men are more likely to suffer from lifestyle related health conditions, have more accidents, have poorer mental wellbeing, and are more likely to take their own life. Whilst these points evoke a variety of feelings and sentiments, together the outlook can be improved, and it starts with you!

Men’s Health Week this year is about teams. Much like a sporting team, it takes a variety of relationships both on-and-off the field to help each player show up and be their best. Make sure you have the right supports in place on your team to look after your physical, mental and social wellbeing: family, friends, community, local interest groups, and health professionals all have something to contribute. So, how is your team line-up currently? An easy way to check the strength of your team is to write each group down and give yourself a number on 1-10, 1 being not at all engaged, and 10 being fully engaged. Its ok to not be a 10 in all areas, most usually sit between a 7-9. It’s ok to be a 1-2, so long as you acknowledge this and do something to change it.

If you want to talk to someone about aspects missing from your team, BSS is a great starting place to have this conversation. Reach out on 1800 30 30 90 to organise a confidential chat today.