The Pulse - Staff Newsletter

Latest PHN News

Allied Health Conference 2024 - Stronger Together more than a theme

The conference program can still be viewed here, and if you are interested in seeing any of the presentations the organisers do have the recordings. Please reach out to the Integrated Care Team via email to alliedhealth@thephn.com.au

The Allied Health Reference Group has two meetings remaining in August and November 2024, the members are very engaged and happy to provide allied health advice as required. To find out more about the group members view the web page . The Allied Health team are happy to facilitate introductions. (Thanks to Jo Dean for this update).

Health & Wellbeing

Here’s how to manage your mental health in winter (cont'd)

• Get some sunlight - Natural sunlight can lift your spirits and help regulate your sleep cycle, and it also triggers the release of serotonin, a neurochemical that helps regulate your mood.
• Create an oasis at home - Think of it as a spa day. You get the idea – light the good candle you’ve been saving for a special occasion, pop on a good TV show make a cuppa and slip on some cosy clothing.
• Stay social - Connection to others is really important for mental well-being. Having a social support network is a huge factor when it comes to fighting mental health issues, so try to catch up with friends and family – even if it’s just by phone.
• Get mindful - While it may seem counter-intuitive – think more? Techniques like meditation, deep breathing and yoga can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Try calming your breathing with a 4-4-4 pattern – breathe in for 4, hold for 4 and release for 4 – it can calm anxious minds.
• Get enough sleep - If possible around 7 hours a night of shut-eye will help you feel less stressed and also mean you’re able to deal with what life throws your way. Turn off your mobile, TV or tablet an hour before bed – the blue light from our devices is proven to trick our bodies into thinking it’s daytime when its not.
• Keep moving - Any activity that gets that heart pumping means that your brain releases neurochemicals to promote feelings of well-being.
• Take a media sabbatical - We all know that the constant barrage of news headlines can take a real toll, not to mention social media and what we find there. To protect yourself, consider limiting your media consumption, or schedule a day a week to stay off your devices.
• Enjoy something new - Think about the things that you know help spark joy in your day. Embrace them by making time for them. Or try something new. This might be creating something, learning about land and country, making a playlist of music, playing a game, reading or visiting a gallery.
• Talk to someone - You can call or chat online with Beyond Blue for counselling 24/7 free of charge. Call 1300 22 46 36 and they will listen, plus they can point you in the right direction for more help if needed.