News
Promoting healthy lifestyle behaviours for young people in larger bodies
Wednesday November 13, 2024
In the face of rising chronic health conditions and lifestyle-related risks, lowering the incidence and impact of preventable chronic diseases in communities across Australia is more crucial than ever.
Recent statistics reveal concerning trends. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2020-21), 94% of adults and 91% of children don’t eat the recommended amount of both fruit and vegetables. Additionally, more than half of Australian adults and 70% of children do not meet the national physical activity guidelines.
Health professionals play an essential role in guiding young people toward resources and support to help them incorporate sustainable lifestyle changes.
Better Health Company aims to tackle these challenges head-on by providing personalised support and practical guidance. Funded by the Western Australia Department of Health, it provides healthy lifestyle programs and services at no cost to primary priority health populations in need of high-quality health care, catering for all age groups with different programs for toddlers, children, families, young people and adults across the State.
A holistic approach prioritises comprehensive health and wellbeing, integrating nutrition, physical activity, behaviour change, social support and emotional wellbeing into all programs and services. Family programs are delivered both in person and in online formats to provide flexible options to suit different needs.
“What surprised me the most is how engaging and interactive the program is. It’s not just about information it encourages practical changes through rewarding activities like hitting step goals and trying diverse, nutritious foods,” shared a Better Health Program parent.
“During my few months on the better health coaching, it was an amazing experience. As I had someone that cared and was able to understand and help me with things I’ve found difficult in the past. My health and lifestyle has had a great positive change, I feel more confident with the ability to take care of my health and wellbeing,” said a Better Health Coaching Service participant.
A referral from a trusted health professional is often the motivation people need to join their programs. The programs are designed to complement the client care offered by health professionals and provide practical solutions for clients and their families.
Health professionals across the State are encouraged to take advantage of this valuable resource and empower their clients on their journey to better health. For more information and to refer to these programs, visit betterhealthcompany.org/make-a-referral/ or contact Better Health Company on 1300 822 953.
You are also invited to join the experts from Better Health Company at the upcoming YFD Workshop: Managing the Nutritional Health of Young People on 22 November. Find out more and book your ticket on the YFD Workshop Eventbrite page.
