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Healthy living

Read our articles about healthy living and find out how it can improve the way you feel.

Healthy living articles

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Moving forward

A person from waist down using a walking stick.

In 2004 I was in a serious car accident. I was in a coma for three months and suffered a brain injury. I use a walking frame and a crutch to walk. I am embarrassed that walking is so difficult for me. But now I am learning to walk independently again. I go to physiotherapy classes. It is very hard work. I need to keep my back straight. I must remember to keep my right knee bent. I must step with my heel first. I am exhausted. But I keep trying. My goal keeps me motivated and moving forward.

Posted by: Anat Bigos, on 16/05/12

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Managing depression

A dark image with young man looking out with a troubled expression.

Depression can feel strange and confusing for young people. Bronwyn Collins was in high school when she started to feel unhappy. In 2005, a doctor diagnosed her with depression and prescribed medication to help her. After being diagnosed Bronwyn got involved with the youth program at Beyond Blue. Beyond Blue is an organisation that aims to raise awareness and to improve the treatment of mental illnesses. Bronwyn gives talks to people about depression. Over time, Bronwyn has learned to feel good again. She is studying at university and looks forward to her future.

Posted by: Susan Frankel, on 15/05/12

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Phil's story

Two sailing boats against the backdrop of a blue sky.

At the age of 14 Phil was hit by a car and was in a coma for about three months. He was diagnosed with acquired brain injury and developed epilepsy and a tremor in his right side. When he came out of his coma he began the long process of rehabilitation. His tremor made it harder to learn to walk again. But he achieved this goal through courage and determination. Phil enjoys his life. He has taught himself to dance and goes to nightclubs. He has a passion for poetry and music. He loves sailing. He continues to find happiness.

Posted by: Bernadette Lancefield, on 14/05/12

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Op shopping

A woman looking through a rack of clothing.

Opportunity shops, or op shops, sell used items at cheap prices. They sell clothing, homewares and furniture. Shopping at op shops has many benefits. Buying used items encourages recycling and sustainability. Op shops organisations use profits from their shops to help people in need in the community. The largest and most well-known op shop organisations are The Salvos stores and Vinnies Centres. You can find many unique and discounted items. Many Salvos and Vinnies Centres stores are accessible. People with disabilities are welcome to volunteer at the stores. They will be given duties that match their abilities.

Posted by: Camille Condon, on 10/05/12

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A little bit dry

Rain on a window.

I had to go to town by bus. I put a plastic raincoat, or poncho, in my backpack. When I got to town it was windy and raining hard. With my limited vision, I tried to put on my poncho. I finally did. But wait. It was on back to front. I took it off and put it on properly. But a blast of wind ripped the poncho over my head and it flew away. A man gave it back to me. But I told him to keep it. I needed to buy an umbrella to try and stay a little bit dry.

Posted by: Kate Giles, on 09/05/12

1 comment - last comment on 10/05/12

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