Acts of kindness and compassion

Most people feel better when someone is kind to them. Being kind and compassionate can help other people, and make you feel good too.

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Serotonin

Serotonin is a chemical messenger that affects wellbeing and happiness. Many antidepressants increase serotonin levels in the brain.

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Back to school health tips

Is your child starting or returning to school? Here are 5 top tips to help your child navigate their way into a healthy and happy school year.

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5 things people with Down syndrome want you to know

About 1 in every 1,100 babies born has Down syndrome — and most will enjoy a long, healthy life. Here's what you need to know about Down syndrome (Trisomy 21).

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Building and maintaining healthy relationships

Loving each other doesn’t necessarily mean you will communicate well. Healthy relationships take work. Nurture your relationship with these tips.

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Good mental health

To build good mental health, try to look after yourself and do things you enjoy. Learn more ways to look after your mental health and wellbeing.

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Managing stress through the festive season

Christmas can lead to stress, family conflict and financial woes for many people. Check out these tips for keeping your cool during the festive season.

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Creating a calming, helpful home for people with dementia

A soothing, calming atmosphere is helpful for everybody. For a person with dementia, it can help minimise their confusion and help them to concentrate and rest.

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Pain relief during labour

Learn what natural and medical options are available to you to relieve pain during labour and how your birth support partner can help you.

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Speed

Speed is a drug that can become addictive and lead to health, social and financial problems. Find out about its effects and associated risks.

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Ketamine

Ketamine is a drug used by doctors and vets. It can also be used illegally to get high. Learn more about ketamine and the dangers of long-term abuse.

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Work-life balance

Do you wonder if you work too much? Or too little? Check out our tips for balancing the pressures of your work and personal life.

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Gender affirming surgery

Gender affirming surgery helps people with gender incongruence medically affirm their gender. Learn more about these types of surgeries here.

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Feeling worthless

Low self-esteem or feelings of worthlessness can happen to anyone. Learn more about what to do if you are feeling worthless, and where to get support.

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Dealing with life events

Life events such as accidents, job loss, death, relationships or even positives like weddings can cause stress. Learn strategies to cope when you’re struggling.

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Developmental milestones in babies and children

Track your baby’s growth and learnings with developmental milestones. Discover when to expect progress, recognise issues, and seek professional help.

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Kava

Kava is a plant native to the Pacific Islands. It has traditional uses as a ceremonial drink. Find out about the effects of drinking kava.

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Down syndrome

Down syndrome is caused by trisomy 21. People with Down syndrome are affected differently. It causes learning difficulties, and some health problems.

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Avoidant personality disorder

People with avoidant personality disorder appear shy and timid. They avoid people and situations because they fear negative judgement by others.

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8 signs of a toxic relationship

Recognising signs that your relationship is toxic may not be easy. Learn about the warning signs that something might not be right in your relationship.

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Angelman syndrome

A rare syndrome causing physical and intellectual disability. It can’t be cured, but some therapies can improve the quality of life of those affected.

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This festive season, don't give your loved ones food poisoning

With the festive season comes the risk of food poisoning. Follow these tips to stay healthy and safe when entertaining at home.

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Body piercing

Deciding to get body piercing or a tattoo is a personal decision. Read on for things to consider, and tips to help keep you healthy and safe.

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Party drugs

Some people use drugs at parties to experience a ‘high’. But party drugs can impact your mental and physical wellbeing, and many are illegal.

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Developing life skills through sports

Sport is good for your child's physical health. Sport also has psychological benefits for children and teaches them important life skills.

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The role of a geriatrician

A geriatrician is a specialist doctor who cares for people aged 65 and over. Most are experts at helping people who have multiple conditions.

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What your poo (stool) says about your health

Your poo can give clues about your diet, fluid intake, medication use and lifestyle. Shape, colour and texture all counts. Learn more.

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Dwarfism

Dwarfism refers to people of short stature. Most people with dwarfism lead relatively long and healthy lives. Find out more about dwarfism here.

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Ice (crystal meth)

Ice, also known as crystal meth, is a very addictive illegal drug. Find out more about ice, including what it is and the dangers of its use.

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Your Christmas mental health questions answered

healthdirect's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nirvana Luckraj, answers your questions on looking after your mental health at Christmas time.

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