Health and Wellness

Health and Wellness

The Hidden Toll of Financial Abuse and Debt on Single Parents

  Controlling behaviour is a major red flag in any relationship—and it often extends far beyond emotional or physical abuse. Financial abuse is an increasingly common and damaging form of control and it can be especially frightening if you’re already in debt. Financial abuse is often overlooked or minimised, and many people feel embarrassed to talk about it. But recognising the signs and reaching out early is essential. What Does Financial Abuse Look Like? Financial abuse can take many forms. Some signs to watch for include: Being forced to take out loans or credit in your name Having your bank account login details taken or changed Someone adding their name to your account without your consent Money being spent by someone who promised to use it for bills or groceries—but didn’t Being asked to justify or explain every purchase Being stopped from accessing your own banking or credit accounts Being told what you can or can’t spend your money on Being coerced into cancelling or changing insurance policies If any of these sound familiar, talk to someone you trust and seek professional help. Debt and Mental Health Debt is stressful for anyone, but the emotional toll is especially heavy for single parents. Managing bills, childcare, and basic living expenses on one income is tough—especially for those working part-time to reduce childcare costs. The pressure to be the sole provider can leave parents feeling anxious and overwhelmed. The Biggest Financial Pressures Food & Bills Rent or mortgage aside, single parents say their biggest costs are food and household bills. Many report that bills consume the majority of their income, closely followed by the cost of feeding their families. Worryingly, a significant number say they’ve had to cut back on essentials like groceries or utilities just to make ends meet. Food prices alone saw a steep rise between early 2022 and early 2024—well above the average increases seen in the previous decade. Childcare Costs Childcare continues to be a major financial burden. Single dads are more likely to be working full-time, while many single mums juggle part-time work or unemployment, often due to the demands of childcare. While working fewer hours can ease childcare expenses in the short term, it can also limit long-term financial security. Many single mothers, in particular, express deep concern about what this means for their financial future. What Can You Do? Track Your Progress Keep a record of small financial wins—like avoiding a takeaway or making a minimum debt payment. These moments serve as reminders of progress when things feel overwhelming. Talk to Your Lender If you’re in debt, don’t ignore it. Contact your lender and ask about manageable payment plans. Debt Management Plans (DMPs) can help consolidate and reduce repayments on unsecured debts. Get Support Mental health support is just as important as financial advice. Speak to your GP or another mental health professional if you’re concerned about your state of mind. You’re not alone—and help is available. Reaching out is the first step to regaining control.

Health and Wellness

Different by Design

  How Men and Women Approach Health — and What We Can Learn From Each Other. When it comes to health, men and women are not created equal — and that’s not a bad thing. Understanding the differences can be the key to living longer, healthier, and stronger lives. Biology plays a big role. Men face higher risks of heart disease earlier in life, along with greater incidences of certain cancers like colorectal and prostate cancer. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to encounter autoimmune conditions, osteoporosis, and the intense hormonal changes of menopause. Hormones matter too. While men experience a gradual decline in testosterone as they age, women’s hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause are often far more sudden and dramatic, impacting mood, metabolism, and cardiovascular health in major ways. Mental health trends also differ. Women are statistically more likely to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety, while men often mask emotional struggles — leading to higher rates of suicide and untreated mental health conditions. Traditional stereotypes encouraging men to “tough it out” and discouraging emotional openness continue to carry a heavy cost. When it comes to seeking help, women lead the way. Women are far more proactive about preventative healthcare — booking regular check-ups, screenings, and addressing symptoms early. Men are more likely to delay medical visits until issues become serious, putting them at greater risk of late-stage diagnosis and complications. Longevity statistics consistently show women living longer. Globally, women outlive men by an average of five to seven years — but experts say men can close that gap by adopting some of the habits women excel at: preventative care, emotional expression, and a balanced approach to wellness. The real opportunity? Learning from each other. Men can benefit from adopting women’s proactive, communicative approach to health. Women can also take strength from some traditionally male traits — resilience, goal-driven wellness strategies, and self-advocacy in medical settings. And both genders can break free from outdated ideas about vulnerability, strength, and emotional health. In 2025 and beyond, understanding these differences isn’t about competition. It’s about collaboration — and building healthier, happier lives together.

Health and Wellness

Job Interviews Go Both Ways

Red Flags to Watch for and Questions You Should Ask. Job hunting can be stressful—from last-minute CV tweaks to awkward questions like “Where do you see yourself in five years?”, not to mention the silence that can follow an interview. But amid the pressure, it’s easy to forget that job interviews are a two-way street. Just as the company is evaluating you, you should be evaluating them to see if they’re the right fit for your lifestyle, values, and career goals. There are more than 16 million TikTok posts under “red flags in job interviews”, and searches for the term have surged by 156 per cent in the past month. Here are the six red flags to watch for, according to Somebody Digital, plus six smart questions to uncover the true culture behind the job ad. Red Flags to Watch For Constant Rescheduling A single date change is fine—but repeated last-minute reschedules show a lack of respect for your time and may reflect poor internal communication or disorganisation. Vague Role Descriptions Your interviewer should clearly explain the role, responsibilities, and how it fits into the company’s goals. Evasive answers may mean they’re hiding high turnover, poor culture, or unclear leadership. Blurred Boundaries If a remote role comes with after-hours emails or no clarity around working hours, that’s a red flag. Respect for work-life balance matters, even outside the office. Bait and Switch If the job discussed in the interview differs wildly from the ad, be wary. This tactic sets false expectations and hints at broader honesty issues within the company. Badmouthing Former Staff If they complain about the last person in the role, take note. It suggests low morale, poor leadership, and a potentially toxic environment. Overly Personal Questions Questions about your health, family, or personal life are inappropriate and signal poor understanding of boundaries—something that could continue if you accept the role.   Questions You Should Ask What Can I Expect on My First Day? This reveals how well they onboard new employees. A lack of structure or support could point to overworked teams or poor planning. What’s the Best Part of Working Here? If the interviewer struggles to answer, it could mean the perks are minimal—or that job satisfaction isn’t a priority. Do Team Members Socialise Outside of Work? This helps gauge the company culture. Whether you prefer a social environment or strict boundaries, the answer will help you assess fit. What Could I Do to Exceed Expectations in This Role? This question gives insight into whether expectations are realistic and helps clarify what success in the role actually looks like. How Do You Recognise Success? If promotions or recognition are vague or rare, you may struggle to grow in the role. A lack of recognition is a key reason people leave jobs. How Do You Include Remote Workers in the Team? With hybrid work common, it’s vital to know how remote staff are supported and included. Collaboration shouldn’t suffer just because you’re off-site.   By looking out for red flags and asking the right questions, you’ll be in a stronger position to choose a role that supports your growth—and avoids unnecessary stress down the line.

Health and Wellness

Swipe, style, surgery

Are Dating Apps Changing the Face of Beauty? In today’s swipe-right world, finding love is only a profile picture away. But behind the filtered photos and witty bios, a new study is revealing a more complex reality: dating apps may be fuelling a rising obsession with cosmetic procedures, particularly among women. Researchers from the University of South Australia have found that women who use dating apps are 20% more likely to consider or undergo cosmetic enhancements like dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections. The reason? The pressure to look perfect in a digital-first dating world. Dating apps have reduced the stigma around meeting partners online, but they’ve also created new kinds of social pressure – especially when it comes to how we look. While social media’s impact on body image is well-documented, this study is among the first to specifically examine the effect of dating apps. The visual nature of dating apps prioritises photo-based profiles, placing pressure, particularly on women, to project an idealised and perfect version of themselves. The connection between dating apps and appearance-altering choices isn’t just skin-deep. Women who use dating apps also reported more positive attitudes towards cosmetic surgery than non-users. What’s more, those who frequently use filters or digitally edit their images were also more likely to consider real-life cosmetic procedures. When you are so used to seeing yourself through a range of filters and airbrushing, it can be tempting to make those edits come to life through cosmetic enhancements. The research surveyed over 300 Australian women aged 18 to 72. Nearly half had used a dating app within the past two years, and one in five reported having had at least one cosmetic procedure. Introducing more personality-based matching algorithms could also be considered to reduce the emphasis on physical looks, and apps could offer built-in body image interventions such as self-compassion exercises to mitigate the pressures to alter one’s appearance. With dating app usage growing rapidly – eHarmony predicts more than 70% of relationships will begin online by 2040 – these concerns are becoming increasingly relevant. The culture of digital dating is changing not only how people meet, but how they see themselves.

Health and Wellness

Integrating mental and physical well-being

It’s 2025, where the landscape of health and wellness is undergoing significant transformation, emphasising the integration of mental and physical well-being. Here at Getit, we recognise the importance of addressing both aspects to foster holistic health.    Personalised Health Approaches  Advancements in technology have paved the way for personalised health strategies. Precision medicine tailors treatments based on individual genetics, environment, and lifestyle, enhancing effectiveness and minimising side effects. Wearable health tech, such as smartwatches, now monitors various health metrics, empowering individuals to take proactive roles in their health management.     Mental Fitness and Digital Well-being  The digital age presents unique challenges, including decreased attention spans and increased mental fatigue. Mental fitness has emerged as a crucial practice, involving mindfulness meditation, digital minimalism, and single-tasking to enhance cognitive function and emotional resilience. Additionally, the rise of AI-driven mental health support offers accessible, personalised care, allowing individuals to receive therapy from virtually anywhere.     Holistic and Integrative Health  There’s a growing trend towards holistic health, combining conventional medicine with alternative therapies like naturopathy, acupuncture, yoga, and herbal treatments. This integrative approach allows individuals to choose personalised strategies that promote a balanced and sustainable quality of life.     Community and Connection  Rebuilding a sense of community is essential for overall well-being. Social connections have a profound impact on mental and physical health, and fostering local connections can enhance trust and support within communities.

Health and Wellness

The Hidden Dangers of Permanent Dermal Fillers

As facial rejuvenation treatments grow in popularity, Dr. Vivek Eranki, CEO of Cosmetique is urging Australians to think twice before opting for permanent dermal fillers. While temporary fillers have become a safe and widely accepted choice, permanent fillers carry significant long-term risks that are often overlooked. Permanent fillers, made from substances like silicone or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), remain in the body indefinitely. According to Dr. Eranki, these fillers can lead to complications such as infections, granulomas, or nodules. “Many people may not fully understand the significance and risks associated with permanent fillers,” he says. Unlike temporary fillers, which integrate well with the surrounding tissues, permanent fillers often migrate over time, distorting facial features and creating an unnatural appearance. As the face naturally changes with age, permanent fillers can result in an unnatural look that doesn’t align with a person’s evolving facial structure. Additionally, removing permanent fillers is no easy task. The procedure often requires invasive surgery, which carries the risk of scarring and further complications. Temporary fillers, particularly those made from hyaluronic acid, offer a safer and more flexible alternative. These fillers can be dissolved if necessary and allow for adjustments over time. These are also adaptable. The brilliance of temporary fillers is their flexibility and reversibility, which provide safer and more adaptable solutions for facial rejuvenation. As cosmetic treatments continue to rise in popularity, experts, including Dr. Eranki, stress the importance of making informed decisions. Consumers are encouraged to consult qualified professionals and thoroughly research the procedures they’re considering. For those seeking facial rejuvenation, the message is clear: temporary fillers offer the safety and flexibility that permanent fillers cannot match, making them a more suitable choice for most of us. By prioritising safer options and understanding the long-term implications, Australians can achieve their aesthetic goals without compromising their health or future appearance.

Health and Wellness

The Hidden Connection Between Stress, Hormones and Your Beauty

By Emma Claire Nutrition, Clinical Nutritionist (BHSc) We all deal with stress, but what if your body is trying to tell you something through your hair, skin, or nails? If you’ve noticed dull hair, unpredictable skin, or brittle nails, your hormones might be sending you a message. The Hormone-Beauty Connection When stress takes over, our bodies release cortisol—the famous stress hormone. While cortisol helps us respond to challenges, too much over time can disrupt our body’s balance. Think of it as an alarm system that stays on too long, leading to wear and tear on your body, including your appearance. How Stress Shows Up on Your Body Your Skin Your skin isn’t just a passive barrier; it’s an active neuro-endocrine organ, meaning it’s linked to both your nervous and hormonal systems. High cortisol levels can weaken your skin’s protective barrier and even impact gut health (yes, they’re connected!). This can lead to: Increased sensitivity Sudden dryness Flare-ups of acne or eczema Cortisol also makes your sebum thicker and increases keratin production, which can clog pores and contribute to breakouts—hence those untimely pimples before big events. Hair Changes Noticing more hair in your brush? Stress hormones can push your hair into its “resting” phase, leading to increased shedding. Additionally, stress diverts nutrients away from non-essential functions like hair growth, making strands weaker and more prone to breakage. Nail Signals Brittle nails or ridges? When stress takes over, your body prioritises essential functions over nail growth. This can leave your nails weak and lacking key nutrients. Your Action Plan for Healthy Skin, Hair & Nails Nourish Your Body Support your beauty from within by prioritising nutrient-rich foods: Wild-caught salmon and sardines – Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and support skin health. Pastured eggs – Packed with biotin, essential for hair growth. Colourful fruits and vegetables – Rich in antioxidants that protect skin cells from stress. High-quality proteins, including organ meats – These are loaded with vitamin A, B12, and zinc, crucial for hair and skin health. (Not a fan of organ meats? Try supplements like Cell Squared Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Capsules.) Support Your Hormones Balancing stress hormones can work wonders for your beauty routine. Try these simple habits: Start your day with five minutes of meditation – even a short practice can lower cortisol. Take deep breathing breaks – Try box breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds). Prioritise 7-9 hours of sleep – Beauty sleep is real! Stay hydrated with filtered water throughout the day. Move your body in ways that feel good—exercise is a natural stress reliever. Listen to Your Body Your hair, skin, and nails can be subtle messengers of your overall health. By managing stress and supporting your hormones, you can help restore balance, not just for beauty, but for your overall well-being.

Health and Wellness

Anchoring Yourself in the Storm: A toolkit for calming anxiety

By Justine Williams Navigating Anxiety: Your Guide to Finding Calm Anxiety can arrive suddenly, like a gust of wind knocking you off balance, or creep in quietly when life feels overwhelming—when guilt lingers, self-doubt grows, or stress builds up. What many don’t realise is that everyday factors can amplify anxiety. Too much caffeine, dehydration, or low levels of vitamins B and D can heighten an already sensitive nervous system, turning a whisper of unease into a roar. Anxiety wears many disguises. It may appear as racing thoughts, excessive worry, difficulty sleeping, hyperventilation, or the sudden urge to escape. Some people overthink; others shut down completely. But here’s the truth: anxiety is not a sign that you are falling apart. It’s a signal that you need support and the right tools to regain balance. A Toolkit for Calming Anxious Moments Building a personal toolkit can provide comfort when anxiety strikes. Here are a few strategies to help you navigate anxious moments with greater ease. Your First Step: Seek Professional Support If anxiety is affecting your daily life, seek professional support. A GP can be your first point of contact, offering guidance and next steps. The 4/6 Breath – Your Inner Anchor When anxiety sets in, breathing often becomes shallow and rapid. A simple yet effective technique to calm your nervous system is the 4/6 breath: Inhale through your nose for four counts. Exhale slowly through your mouth for six counts. Repeat ten times if comfortable. This technique reassures your body that you are safe and in control. Know Your Triggers and Plan Ahead Anxiety thrives in uncertainty, but awareness and boundaries can help you regain control. If you feel overwhelmed, reflect on past experiences. How did you overcome challenging feelings? Identifying triggers and allowing yourself to say no is like carrying a map through unfamiliar terrain. A Pocketful of Calm – Your Personal Lifeline Imagine a boat being pulled by a strong current. Now picture dropping an anchor—something that steadies the boat. Create your own calming anchor that you can access anytime, anywhere. It could be: A soothing scent A playlist that grounds you A meditation or breathing exercise A grounding object, like a stone or fabric A handwritten or voice note reminding you: breathe, this feeling will pass Having access to familiar soothing tools can help you navigate anxious moments with greater ease.

By Justine Williams

Health and Wellness

Don’t be a slave to ‘Menstrual Misery’

If you suffer from heavy painful periods you should read this.   Do you..   Feel tired all the time?  Suffer from Anemia?  Have days off work or have no energy to go to the gym?  Have no sex drive?  Feel like your periods are taking over your life and feel like there is no solution?  FACTS:   No woman should suffer heavy periods – they are not normal!  Perception: “they are normal and I should put up with them”   Myth: an iron infusion will solve the problem  So what should you do? Get help to find out why this is happening to you.   And don’t be afraid of the word ‘hysterectomy’… here’s why…   Seek Help Now:   If you experience what is known as ‘menstrual misery’ or heavy painful periods you should be seeking help now.   Available Treatments:   Oral contraceptive pill:  If appropriate, and especially in the younger age group, taken continuously it can result in the majority of women having no periods at all.   Mirena:  This intrauterine device is inserted into the womb and results in a significant reduction in blood loss in the majority and complete loss of periods in a significant number of women for up to five years before the Mirena has to be replaced.   Seek a Referral:   If your heavy painful periods persist despite all best efforts, a referral to a specialist is required.   Surgical Options:   If these conservative treatments don’t work, you should encourage your GP to refer you to a gynecologist who will take a detailed history, perform a clinical exam to rule out any sinister cause for heavy bleeding before offering surgical options, usually in the form of an endometrial ablation or recommending a laparoscopic hysterectomy.   Modern Hysterectomy:   A modern-day total laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive procedure involving three, 5mm incisions in the abdomen which heal very quickly, with most women walking within hours of surgery and driving after a week.   The Difference:   A major misconception is that most women assume the ovaries are taken out at the time of surgery, putting them into the “dreaded menopause”. This is not the case, as most hysterectomies only involve the removal of the uterus and cervix. In most cases, the ovaries remain, so women don’t go into ‘premature menopause’. Menopause usually happens several years later when nature takes its course.   The Benefits:   Stay for Recovery:  While you can usually go home the same day, at Gold Coast Private Hospital you can stay for a day or two, so you can get a well-deserved rest or some “me time” with excellent food before returning home.   The Result:  The result of this type of hysterectomy is no more Pap smears; eliminated risk of cervical and endometrial cancer; and reduction in the risk of ovarian cancer.   The Advantages:  For those who have been long-time sufferers of menstrual misery, the advantages of hysterectomy are so much more – iron stores return to normal, energy is increased, debilitating period pain disappears, no more days off work or missed gym sessions.   Be Aware:   As is the case with any medical condition, surgery should always be the last resort. But, if you have finished having children and have had no success with non-surgical methods, don’t be afraid of hysterectomy. For eligible patients, and when done by a skilled surgeon, it can completely change your life for the better.   Conclusion:   The aim of this clinic is to sensitively and effectively investigate, diagnose and treat these problems quickly, in order to restore quality of life.   Specializing in compassionate care for women’s health issues, Dr. Graeme Walker and the dedicated team at the Menstrual Misery Clinic offer personalized solutions to alleviate your discomfort and improve your quality of life.   Don’t let heavy bleeding and agonizing cramps hold you back any longer. Our clinic provides:   ✓ Comprehensive evaluations to diagnose underlying causes   ✓ Customized treatment plans tailored to your needs   ✓ Advanced therapies to manage heavy periods and alleviate pain   ✓ Supportive guidance and education to empower you in managing your menstrual health   With Dr. Graeme Walker by your side, you can regain control over your menstrual cycle and rediscover the joy of everyday life.   If you have any questions,   please contact our team at   [email protected]   For more information contact:   Dr Graeme Walker   Menstrual Misery Centre

Health and Wellness

From Passion to Purpose: Candice Groves’ Journey to Founding BEST CELLF

In the world of wellness, it’s rare to find someone as dedicated to both their personal journey and helping others as Candice Groves. A Gold Coast local with a passion for health and longevity, Candice turned her fascination with the body’s natural processes into a thriving business that’s making a difference in the lives of many. As the founder of BEST CELLF, she has combined her background in wellness and marketing to create a brand that makes advanced self-care therapies accessible to everyday Australians. In this exclusive interview, Candice shares her story—from her early experimentation with wellness practices to the creation of her innovative Infrared PEMF Mats. Q: Candice, can you tell us a bit about yourself and what sparked your passion for wellness? A: From a young age, I’ve always been fascinated by how the body works and how we can optimise its performance naturally. I started experimenting with wellness modalities like saunas, cold plunges, and PEMF therapy, which eventually set me on the path to creating BEST CELLF. Q: What inspired you to launch BEST CELLF? A: After working in the wellness industry for years, I saw a huge gap in the market—advanced therapies like PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy were incredibly beneficial but often out of reach for most people due to their high costs. I wanted to change that and create a brand that made these powerful therapies accessible and affordable to more Australians. Q: How did you go about making these therapies more accessible? A: It took extensive research and product development, but I eventually launched BEST CELLF with our signature Infrared PEMF Mats. These mats combine PEMF therapy with far-infrared heat and red light therapy to promote cellular recovery, relaxation, and overall well-being. The idea was to provide a tool that anyone, from athletes to wellness enthusiasts, could use in their daily life to improve their health. Q: The name BEST CELLF is quite unique. What’s the story behind it? A: The name is a playful nod to the idea of becoming our best selves, starting at the cellular level. Every aspect of wellness begins with healthy cells, so the name reflects that goal of promoting health from the inside out. Q: How do you continue to incorporate wellness into your own life? A: I’m a huge advocate for daily wellness routines. I incorporate practices like yoga, breathwork, and of course, daily sessions on my Infrared PEMF mat. It’s all about integrating these habits into your life in a way that’s sustainable and beneficial. Q: Can customers try out BEST CELLF products in person? A: Absolutely! We offer in-person demonstrations and consultations at our headquarters in Burleigh Heads. It’s a great way for people to experience the benefits of our Infrared PEMF Mats firsthand before committing. Q: What’s your ultimate mission with BEST CELLF? A: My mission is to empower others by providing accessible, high-quality tools that support both physical and mental well-being. I want everyone to be able to access advanced wellness therapies, no matter their budget. So why not indulge in a wellness upgrade that works at the cellular level? Visit bestcellf.com.au and discover how PEMF therapy can revitalise your self-care routine today.