With the beauty industry producing up to 120 billion units of plastic packaging annually (with 70% ending up in landfill), it’s good to note how we can incorporate a more eco-friendly beauty regime.

1. Look for the PETA or Leaping Bunny logos for cruelty-free brands.

Many beauty brands will now state if they’re cruelty-free and are against testing their products on animals.

By looking out for the PETA or Leaping Bunny certification on the back of your make-up products, you will be able to see whether the brand tests on animals or not. This also goes for products that are vegan.

2. Engage in any refill schemes.

What we do with our products at the end of its life cycle should also be considered.

Many beauty brands offer recycling schemes or discounts on refills such as M.A.C., Maybelline, NARS, Aveda and Kiehls.

3. Look for brands with less plastic packaging.

Bamboo make-up brushes and bio-degradable make-up wipes are now available in most shops, so promoting the purchases of products with less plastic is a sustainable beauty choice.

4. Try and stick to one product at a time.

While it is tempting to try out multiple foundations or lipsticks when searching for your new ‘go to’ eco-beauty brand, it will only cost more money and is not the most sustainable approach.

Asking for samples at beauty counters are a good way to ensure you’re purchasing the right product, and not letting it go to waste.

5. Take a look at your products ingredients.

It’s important to take a look at the ingredients in your products, not only because you put it on your skin but to know if it’s ethically-sourced or natural.

Learn more by visiting U switch.

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The message comes as Australia celebrates Women’s Health Week, which focuses on ways to champion better mental health.

“A nutritious diet affects how we feel both mentally and physically,” says Accredited Practising Dietitian and media spokesperson for Dietitians Australia, Simone Austin.

“By prioritising fresh foods like fruits, vegetables and wholegrains, you’re likely to be rewarded with long-term good health.

“What you eat has the power to support better brain function, concentration, memory and mood.”

She continues, “Nutritious food also gives you energy for exercise and can support a better night’s sleep. These are both so important for a healthy headspace. Mental health is more important than ever, as Covid-19 disrupts our daily routines.”

Survey results

A survey commissioned by Dietitians Australia and it uncovered that half of survey respondents felt better when they ate certain foods.

Of the 1000 survey participants, the food most commonly reported to boost mood was chocolate, followed by fruit.

Ms Austin explained, “There are many reasons why we feel better after eating certain foods – the pleasure of the taste, to nutrients supporting our gut and brain health.

“For example, fruit is packed full of B vitamins and fibre, used by your body in the everyday cells function required for mental wellbeing. It also is a source of natural sugars which are a type of carbohydrate – the preferred energy source for the brain.

“If you’re after a simple mood-boosting change to your day, make fruit your go-to snack for morning or afternoon tea. Enjoy those that are in-season – think bananas, strawberries, melons and oranges for spring – they’re likely to be full of flavour.

“You might even like to opt for some delicious in-season fruit with a light drizzle of dark chocolate.”

For more information, please visit womenshealthweek.com.au

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Commemorative gatherings will take place locally and online to share hope for those struggling with their mental health and for those grieving loved ones lost to suicide.

Nine lives are taken via suicide every day, affecting millions of Australians. The impact of the pandemic has additionally heightened the need for crisis support, with Lifeline expecting a 22% increase in calls compared to pre-Covid levels.

“Australia has never needed Lifeline more than it does now and Lifeline is there for every Australian,” says Lifeline Australia Chair, John Brogden.

“Those having suicidal thoughts or grappling with mental ill health can often feel alone, but they are never alone. Please reach out and get the help you need when you need it. It can save your life.

“Out of the Shadows is a reminder that others feel the same way. We want to come together this World Suicide Prevention Day, to remind people that through the darkness there is light.”

Australians can join the event and take action by walking together in solidarity. Learn more by clicking here.

Those across the country can also visit the virtual reflection garden to plant a flower and leave a message of remembrance or support. This year, reflective garden visitors can plant a Waratah flower as a pledge of action to support every person in crisis and show others that they are not alone.

“It’s time to bring these stories out of the shadows,” adds Mr Brogden.

“By sharing these stories, Lifeline hopes to help others understand and support each other and reduce the stigma around suicidal crisis.”

These stories are available to be viewed, here.

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Today, 23 August, Deanna Mill is appointed as the ECP Board Director, following the conclusion of Lauren Burton’s term.

Ms Mill is based in Adelaide and has acquired a range of skills and experience having worked in rural, metropolitan, hospital, community, teaching and research settings. Additionally, Ms Mill is also currently completing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the University of Western Australia.

PSA National President, A/Prof Chris Freeman welcomes Ms Mill and thanks the outgoing, Lauren Burton for her contribution to the role.

“Deanna’s achievements to date are very impressive, and we warmly welcome her to the PSA National Board.

“She is passionate about elevating ECP voices around the country and inspiring the broader profession to see beyond the current state of pharmacy practice, enabling innovation.

“Having worked in multiple practice settings and with her focus currently on researching the professional behaviour of pharmacists, she has unique insight into the disconnect between how pharmacists want to practice and what the current system allows.”

He continues, “On behalf of the PSA Board, I’d like to thank Lauren Burton for her contribution to the role over the past three years.

“ECP’s make up a large proportion of PSA’s membership and are integral stakeholders in the Australian pharmacy sector – and Lauren has led this cohort by example.

“I would particularly like to acknowledge Lauren’s leadership in helping establish the Early Career Pharmacy Community of Specialty Interest. Her consultative and supportive approach to this work ultimately led to its launch at PSA21VIRTUAL.

“Lauren brought far more to the PSA Board in addition to her advocacy for ECPs. Lauren is a naturally gifted director with skills in governance and leadership – importantly bringing a ‘members first’ approach to considerations around the Board table. Lauren has a bright future ahead of her, and I am pleased she will continue in her role on the PSA WA Branch Committee,” says A/Prof Freeman.

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Despite saddening impacts to local businesses caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, G&M Cosmetics are still acknowledging and thanking their “simple ethos of being family-run”.

They say that their growing ‘family’ now includes the Research and Development team, Quality Control, Innovation and the rest of the close-knit employees who make the brand’s heart.

The idea of keeping things local follows through on the ingredient front as well, with natural, native Australian components featuring in their products.

G&M Cosmetics like so many other businesses has been impacted from every touchpoint; from Government restrictions, staff’s inability to travel to work, border closure and transport & logistics delays.

Founder, Mr Jordanov adds: “This has contributed to interruptions in the current everyday running of our company.”

The beginning  

It began as a single production line, by a young migrant entrepreneur who put his entire savings into creating the brand. His aim to produce a value for money, Australian-made skin and beauty product.

G&M Cosmetics now run 19 production lines, producing over 250,000 units per day. Their line includes Australian Creams, P’URE Papayacare, P’URE Papayacare Baby, Australian Creams MKII, Native Australian, Dr. V, Aussie Defence and Kakadu Plum Collection.

The company partners with associations, such as Vegan Society, ACO COSMOS Natural and Australasian Eczema Association who are leading bodies within their relevant industry.

Additionally, with sustainability on the brain, the Taren Point, Sydney-based company has optimistic plans to push harder for clean energy, sustainability, recycling initiatives and minimising waste to produce best in class products with the end consumer in mind.

“In 2020, we reduced our single-use plastic packaging by over 1.5 million pieces, and we will continue to work to reduce our environmental impact,” says Mr Jordanov.

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The Castle Plaza store will be located in Adelaide’s inner south-west, and is the first store to open and operate in South Australia.

New Pharmacist owner, Roy Young arrived in Australia from Scotland 16 years ago and has worked in the same pharmacy ever since.

“We’re so thrilled to be joining the Blooms the Chemist network,” says Mr Young.

“Working in a truly community-centric group like Blooms the Chemist empowers us at Castle Plaza to continue our strong commitment to improving the health outcomes of the Edwardstown community.”

Blooms the Chemist has a network of more than 100 locally-owned pharmacies operating in NSW, QLD, VIC, WA and now SA.

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In the 2021 second quarter, results show Australia remains above the national immunisation target of 95% for all five-year olds at 95.18%.

This is the third consecutive quarter Australians have been above the 95% target.

The five-year-old immunisation rates are additionally well above the estimated World Health Organisation (WHO) international average immunisation coverage rate of 83% in 2020.

The Australian Government invests over $450 million each year through the National Immunisation Program, providing free vaccines to protect against 17 disease groups for eligible Australians, including children, adolescents, the elderly, pregnant women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Among two-year olds, the coverage rate has increased to 92.63% for the 12 months to June 2021. One-year old children have a coverage rate of 94.85%.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children at five years of age continue to have the highest coverage rate of any group at 97.12%.

The coverage rate for two-year old Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children increased to 91.96% while the rate for one-year olds is 93.36%.

Parents and carers continue to show their confidence in Australia’s expert medical advice to keep their children protected and safe from life threatening illness.

For more information, please visit health.gov.au.

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The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) made the statement following the announcement from Prime Minister Scott Morrison that the Covid-19 Pfizer vaccine will be made available to those aged 16 to 39.

“The RACGP welcomes this positive step forward in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout,” says RACGP President, Dr Karen Price.

“I want to remind everyone aged 18 to 39 that a vaccine is currently available to them and I would encourage anyone in this cohort to consult with their GP and consider getting the AztraZeneca vaccine now rather than waiting for a Pfizer vaccine.

“This is particularly so for people living in areas with high Covid-19 case numbers including Greater Sydney, the ACT and Melbourne.

“There is no guarantee that young people will be able to receive a Pfizer vaccine as soon as 30 August arrives, and greater Sydney in particular is experiencing a rising number of Covid-19 cases.”

Dr Price says she implores those who already have an appointment booked to get the AstraZeneca vaccine.

However, she warns to hold off calling general practices.

“Our hard-working general practice staff are responding to this change and will no doubt be getting their systems in place for the 30 August expansion. I want to avoid a repeat of previous occasions this year when practices were inundated with calls and receptionists bore the brunt of frustrated patients.

“So sit tight for now, the Government will advise soon when the time will come to book a jab.”

Dr Price also emphasises her thanks to younger people who have been waiting patiently to be vaccinated.

“What you have been through isn’t fair. Many younger people have wanted to be vaccinated for many months but have been put at the back of the queue again and again. They have also had to endure conflicting messaging on vaccine eligibility and the question of if and when they should be vaccinated.”

Dr Price concludes, “The Delta variant is hitting younger people, including children. We must do everything possible to keep them safe from harm and bring their parents along on the journey so that they feel comfortable and confident having their child vaccinated.”

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The analysis below reveals how respondents’ awareness compares to the experts’ opinions.

1. Alcohol can cause dry mouth: FACT

82% of respondents answered correctly, pointing out that dry mouth is one of the influences of alcohol consumption.

The American Dental Association (ADA) warns that although it’s generally forgotten, dehydration can be highly damaging to teeth. When your saliva flow decreases, bacteria is not washed away from your enamel and thus clings to it causing tooth decay.

2. Alcohol is better for teeth than Coke as it contains less sugar: MYTH

One third of survey participants think that alcohol is better for teeth than coke.

Alcohol damages teeth by dehydrating the mouth, staining teeth and increase acidity levels. Not all alcoholic drinks contain less sugar than coke.

3. Alcohol kills all bacteria and thus eliminates dental plaque: MYTH

22% of respondents believe that alcohol is enough to kill bacteria stuck to teeth.

Experts warn that the typical alcohol-caused dry mouth leads to exactly the opposite effect due to insufficient saliva supposed to remove the bacteria from teeth.

4. The only problem smoking causes to teeth is discolouration: MYTH

While 65% of people believe that discolouration is just one of the many bad effects smoking has on teeth, one-third of respondents claim that this is the only one they should worry about.

Smokers are also three to six times more likely to develop gum disease which can inflame the tooth roots and cause teeth to fall out.

5. The risk of oral cancer is higher in smokers: FACT

This is a well-known fact to participants, as 93% of them agreed.

All tobacco products, are major risk factors to oral and other cancers because all of them contain toxins and carcinogens, according to the ADA.

6. Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables protect against cavities: FACT

Foods with fiber are the best natural protection against cavities and gum disease after good at-home hygiene.

Nearly 80% of interviewees agreed with fiber-rich fruits and their connection to good oral hygiene.

To learn more about lifestyle myths and facts, please click here.

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Doctors, patients and seven-time world surfing and wellness champion, Layne Beachley AO are today (18 August) joining forces to urge all Aussies to take care of their mental health.

According to Intensive Care Specialist at Northern Beaches Hospital and CEO and Founder of virtual mental health clinic, My Mirror, Dr Matthew Zoeller – there are still many substantial barriers to overcome to enable Aussies to gain access to professional mental health services.

“Despite the extensive work still underway to address the misconceptions surrounding mental health,² ³ the ongoing stigma associated with seeking and receiving mental health support poses a major obstacle for many Aussies in psychological distress.

“However, stigma is just one of many challenges facing those affected. Time, cost and geographical location are also severely compromising Australians’ access to mental health support.⁴ ⁵

“This is especially true for those living in regional and remote areas, who may be required to travel to major cities or towns to access professional mental healthcare.”

Tele-tech models  

Dr Zoeller discusses the innovation of using tele-health models.

“…tele-tech models of care combine secure online platforms with next-generation videoconferencing technologies, to provide entirely virtual entirely virtual support. Improved uptake of these digital healthcare models is key to overcoming these barriers, to ensure ALL Australians can access professional mental health support, when, and where they need it.” ⁶ ⁷

My Mirror

My Mirror is the professional psychology partner to Layne’s Awake Academy – an Australian, online portal comprising a series of wellness courses.

Ms Beachley explains, “As a mental wellness champion, I’ve had my share of mental health-related issues. I’ve survived depression and serious injuries that formed part of the emotional roller-coaster that was my 19-year-long professional surfing career.

“Mental health care requires a holistic approach, including the development of a strong support network and professional psychological care.

“I’m partnering with My Mirror because it combines innovation with the professional expertise required to change the way Australians engaged with psychological support.”

Chief Psychologist and co-Founder of My Mirror, Kate Blundell emphasises that there is no one-size fits all approach.

“Each person has a unique set of needs and circumstances, which may evolve over time. We. Must therefore, be able to tailor mental health services to meet today’s societal and behavioural conditions,” says Ms Blundell.

“Consider that there is now the option to speak to an accredited psychologist virtually, from the comfort of your home, at a time convenient to you, regardless of your situation, location or socioeconomic status.”

To learn more about My Mirror, please visit mymirror.com.au.

References

1. Australian Bureau of Statistics. Household Impacts of COVID-19 Survey. 2021; Available from: https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/people-and-communities/household-impacts-covid-19-survey/latest- release.
2. Beyond Blue, beyondblue Information Paper: Stigma and discrimination associated with depression and anxiety. July, 2021.
3. Morgan, A.J., J. Wright, and N.J. Reavley, Review of Australian initiatives to reduce stigma towards people with complex mental illness: what exists and what works? International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 2021. 15(1): p. 10.
4. Osenbach, J.E., et al., Synchronous telehealth technologies in psychotherapy for depression: a meta-analysis. Depress Anxiety, 2013. 30(11): p. 1058-67.
5. Peñate, W., About the effectiveness of telehealth procedures in psychological treatments. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, 2012. 12: p. 461-473.

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