Complete Wellness Guide: Health, Mental & Physical Tips

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

10 More Minutes – A Father’s Gift of Time

In the whirlwind of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the profound impact that a mere ten minutes can have on our children’s lives. The Fathering Project’s “10 More Minutes” initiative emphasises that dedicating just ten additional minutes of quality time each day can significantly influence a child’s development. Research underscores the importance of quality time between fathers and their children. Engaging in meaningful interactions, even for short periods, can: Enhance Emotional Well-being: Children feel more secure and valued. Boost Academic Performance: Regular engagement fosters a love for learning. Increase Self-esteem: Children develop a stronger sense of self-worth. Promote Cognitive Development: Stimulating activities encourage critical thinking. Presence With Purpose It’s not merely about being present, but being present with purpose. Whether your child is a toddler or a teenager, those extra minutes can create lasting memories and strengthen your bond. Think back to your own childhood. Often, it’s the simple moments – playing catch, bedtime stories, or impromptu kitchen dance parties – that leave an lasting mark. By intentionally setting aside time, you’re not just filling minutes but building a reservoir of cherished experiences for your child. Practical Ways to Spend Ten More Minutes Incorporating extra quality time doesn’t require grand gestures. Here are some simple yet impactful activities: Outdoor Adventures: Take a walk along the beautiful Gold Coast beaches or explore local parks. Creative Projects: Engage in arts and crafts, like painting seashells or building sandcastles. Reading Together: Dive into a new book or let your child pick their favourite story. Cooking: Prepare a simple meal or bake treats together, making the kitchen a fun learning space. Dr. Bruce Robinson, founder of The Fathering Project, offers two key strategies to maximise the effectiveness of these ten minutes: Be Intentional: “Right now, pick up your phone or your diary and write it in: 10 more minutes with my kids.” By scheduling this time, you demonstrate its importance and ensure it becomes a consistent part of your routine. Listen Actively: “It’s not about you talking to your kids and giving them advice; it’s about listening. That makes it a success.” Engage in conversations where your child leads the dialogue. Ask them about their friends, school, interests – be it music, sports, or hobbies. This approach fosters trust and openness, making your child feel heard and valued. One of the most effective ways to invest this time is through “Dad Dates.” These are special one-on-one outings where fathers can connect deeply with each child. The Fathering Project offers a comprehensive Dad Date Tip Sheet, providing creative ideas and guidance to make these moments memorable. To get started and for more inspiration, download the Dad Date Tip Sheet from The Fathering Project’s website: thefatheringproject.org/dad-date-tip-sheet Time is fleeting, but the memories we create with our children are timeless. By dedicating just ten more minutes each day, you’re investing in your child’s future, fostering a relationship built on love, trust, and shared experiences. Remember, it’s not about the quantity of time, but the quality. Those extra ten minutes can make all the difference. Top Tips about Dad Dates! Dad Dates are one child at a time, with no-one else and no interruptions. Book it in and try not to cancel. Make a point of scheduling this in your diary, just like a meeting or a job. Don’t leave these Dates to chance. Focus on connecting. Help your child to feel like they are valued, loved and worth your time. Keep it Dad Dates don’t have to be elaborate; a simple coffee, lunch or just going for a walk are easy ways to create one-on-one time. It can sometimes be Occasionally, try taking your child somewhere they’ve been wanting to try, this will help them know you listen to them. Be engaged. Turn your mobile on silent and ensure there are no distractions, like the TV playing in the background (engage with them to make them feel worthy). Check out the video.