Natural disasters such as bushfires, floods, storms, and cyclones can create challenges for people living with diabetes.

These emergencies can create serious health risks, making preparation essential for those who rely on insulin, medication, or medical devices to maintain stable blood glucose levels.

Preparing a well-thought-out plan and being ready for natural disasters can reduce the likelihood of diabetes-related emergencies and life-threatening situations.

The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) provides valuable resources to help people living with diabetes to be prepared. It’s a dedicated natural disaster information page offering guidance on planning and managing diabetes during an emergency (NDSS Natural Disasters).

Creating a Diabetes Emergency Plan

The ‘My Diabetes Plan for Natural Disasters’ is a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals with diabetes prepare for emergencies. It includes a checklist of essential items for a diabetes emergency kit, a space to record personal details, important contact information, and a list of current medications. Keeping this plan alongside an up-to-date emergency kit in a secure location is crucial. Download the plan here: My Diabetes Plan for Natural Disasters.

What to include in a Diabetes Emergency Kit

A well-prepared diabetes emergency kit should contain essential supplies, including:

• Blood glucose monitoring equipment and extra batteries
• Insulin, oral medications, and necessary prescriptions
• Non-perishable food and water supplies
• Glucose tablets or other quick-acting hypoglycaemia treatments such as jellybeans or cans of soft drink
• A list of emergency contacts, including healthcare providers
• Medical identification and important documents

Also ensuring cold storage is available if required (e.g. an eski, cool wallet, or generator) is important for any medications that need to be kept cold.

The ‘My Diabetes Plan’ is also available in many languages, including Arabic, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Greek, Hindi, Italian, Turkish, and Vietnamese.

Supporting health professionals and emergency services

Healthcare providers and emergency services play a crucial role in helping people with diabetes during disasters. The NDSS website offers tailored resources for these professionals, including four educational videos on how to support individuals with diabetes before, during, and after an emergency.

These videos cover:

• The impact of natural disasters on diabetes management
• How to help people prepare for a disaster
• How to use the ‘My Diabetes Plan’ effectively
• Essential resources for diabetes management in emergencies

For more information, visit the NDSS website and access resources for individuals, healthcare professionals, emergency services, and local councils.

Being prepared can make a significant difference in safeguarding health and well-being during a crisis.

Take action now and ensure that you, or your loved ones living with diabetes, are ready for any emergency.

Diabetes Australia has welcomed commitments from both Labor and the Coalition to invest in more bulk billed GP visits.  

With Australia in the midst of a diabetes epidemic, greater access to primary care is necessary to support diabetes screening, as well as management, in order to avoid complications such as heart and kidney disease.  

The announcements mean GP bulk billing incentives will be expanded to all Australians and an additional new incentive payment will be established for practices that bulk bill every patient. 

With more than two million Australians living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, the condition is the cause of a growing crisis costing the health system $3.4 billion annually. 

The majority of diabetes management and review for type 2 diabetes occurs in the primary care setting, so investments that make it easier for people to access that care are welcome. 

In the lead up to the Federal Election, Diabetes Australia is also calling on both sides of politics to commit to funding equitable access to diabetes technologies. 

Expanding subsidies for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring devices will ensure Australians living with all types of diabetes have access to the technology they need to live well.  

Diabetes Australia is urging the Federal Government and the Opposition to commit $200 million over four years to expand subsidised access to diabetes technologies for those who would benefit the most.    

Having diabetes can cause frustration, worry, and burnout but there is something else which can impact your quality of life, and that is social isolation.

In 2022 the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found that one in seven people in Australia experienced social isolation, affecting around 18% of men and 12% of women.

Life events such as the death of a partner, a serious illness, or an injury, can trigger social isolation. If you are feeling lonely or flat, it might be helpful to put some strategies in place to take into the new year. Let’s look at some ideas to help you reduce social isolation and improve your wellbeing in 2025.

Why is it important to address social isolation?

Social isolation can have serious negative health effects. These include:

• Mental illness and emotional distress
• Poor sleep
• Increased negative health behaviors such as physical inactivity, and smoking
• Greater risk of dementia
• Life-threatening behaviours
• Early death

What can you do?

When things get overwhelming, it is hard to know where to start. Here are some targeted initiatives and programs to help combat social isolation, particularly for those living with diabetes.

Diabetes specific ways to reduce social isolation

Diabetes Australia delivers a variety of NDSS-funded face to face and online programs and events, covering a range of topics. As well as the option to attend subject-specific programs there are a number of forums and expos available throughout the year that cover several issues in one day. Most programs are aimed at all people with diabetes, although some may be specifically for people with type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes. Many of the programs are also available in different languages.

All NDSS programs are free to registrants, and run in metropolitan, rural and regional areas. You can filter your search by program and location. These programs are a friendly and informal way to connect with others and receive valuable up-to-date information regarding diabetes.

To find out more call 1800 637 700 or visit ndss.com.au and head to the events page.

Non diabetes specific ways to reduce social isolation

The following programs are delivered by qualified health professionals and offer ongoing and personalised support to help you reach long term health goals.

Get Healthy Service (NSW)

• Phone and online health coaching
• Free
• Minimum of six coaching sessions
• You can register again when your program ends

Call the Get Healthy Service on 1300 806 258 or register online gethealthynsw.com.au.

Life! (VIC)

• Free
• Ongoing, personalised support
• Seven sessions
• Delivered in-person, online, or through telephone health coaching

Call the Life! Program on 13 74 75 or visit lifeprogram.org.au

My health for life (QLD)

• Six coaching sessions
• Free
• Delivered in a group setting, on a one-to-one basis, on the phone, or online
• Culturally adapted sessions available

Call My health for life on 1374 75 or register online myhealthforlife.com.au.

The COACH program (TAS)

• Free
• Coaching delivered by telephone and through mail outs
• Six-month program
• Participants can contact their coach between sessions

Call the COACH program on 8899 7770 or visit thecoachprogram.com.

University of the Third Age

The University of the Third Age (U3A) is a nationwide voluntary, non-profit organisation tailored for people 50 years and over. It runs various educational and leisure activities including Tai Chi, book clubs, day trips, choirs, photography classes, talks, and more. Regular meetings bring people together and can help to decrease feelings of social isolation and help develop new friendships.

Visit u3aaustralia.org.au to find your state U3A.

Walking groups

Walking groups exist throughout Australia. They run regularly and often members grab a coffee or a snack afterwards.

• Heart Foundation walking group – Open to everyone and available in a variety of locations: walking.heartfoundation.org.au/walking.
• Man Walk – For men to get together to walk, talk, and offer support to one another in a positive and friendly environment. There is no cost to join a walk, and the walks take place regularly. To find out more: manwalk.com.au.
• parkrun – A community event held at 500 locations nationwide. Opportunity to walk, run, volunteer, or watch. It isn’t a race, and everyone is welcome. You can even start a parkrun in your own community: parkrun.com.au.
• Neighbourhood Facebook pages are a good place to look for local walking groups.

Join a community college

Community colleges offer a variety of different courses for reasonable prices. The range of courses offered vary depending on location, but you will often find:

• Leisure courses including art, DIY, languages, cooking, photography, fitness, and sports
• Work skills courses such as first aid, training and assessment, accounting, computers, business
• Disability programs including day trips, cooking, sport and fitness, arts and crafts
• Senior classes on technology, dancing, health, fitness, and languages
• Indigenous programs – Look at VERTO Skill to Transform in regional areas offering short courses and qualifications. verto.org.au

Search for local community colleges online, or ask at your local library. Alternatively head to cca.edu.au/members.

Book clubs

Book clubs are a wonderful way to meet people who share a love of reading. There are book clubs throughout Australia. Here are tips to finding one for you:

• Local libraries often have book clubs, and they sometimes supply books and book club questions to chat about at meetings
• Australia reads has a list of book clubs around Australia australiareads.org.au/news/book-clubs-around-australia
• Internet search Try searching book club and whichever location you are in, for example, ‘book club Dubbo’.

Peer support groups

Peer support groups exist for a multitude of reasons covering everything from mental health to managing chronic conditions. They are a terrific way to meet others who are facing challenges like those you may be experiencing. Examples are:

• Diabetes peer support groups peersupport.ndss.com.au
• JDRF peer support for type 1 diabetes jdrf.org.au/living-with-t1d/peer-support-program
• Grow mental wellbeing programs grow.org.au
• Liveup – Offers support and social activities that promote healthy ageing. Contact 1800 951 971 or visit liveup.org.au

Other social and activity clubs

• Hobbies: Gardening, DIY, model railways, fishing, crafting
• Activity: Yoga, tai chi, swimming clubs, fitness clubs, golf, sailing, pickleball, bowling
• Associations such as Country Women’s Association, Probus Club
• Men’s Shed: Male based community development organisation mensshed.org
• View Club: A national women’s organisation focused on supporting young disadvantaged Australians. It is a non-religious, non-political organisation thesmithfamily.com.au/view-clubs or call 1800 805 366.

Tips on overcoming barriers

It can be difficult to try something new for many reasons. Here are some common barriers, along with potential solutions to try.

• Time
  Make an appointment in your diary. Treat it in the same way you book a doctor’s appointment that you would only miss in unusual circumstances.
• Money
  Many of the suggestions in this article are free of charge.
• Fear
  It can be daunting to try something new. Consider joining a program where you get one-on-one support and encouragement to help you get started.
• Motivation
  Maintaining motivation can be difficult but determination to continue and seeing the benefits from attending can keep you motivated.
• Transport
  Depending on where you live transport can be a real barrier. Find out if community transport is available or consider carpooling to activities. Online programs are also a great option if you cannot get to a face-to-face program.

Feeling socially isolated is an unhappy situation and can lead to mental and physical problems. Exploring some of the ideas given in this article may spark your interest or remind you of long forgotten hobbies you once enjoyed.

For more assistance call Diabetes Australia on 1800 177 055 or the NDSS helpline on 1800 637 700 and ask to speak to a health professional. Psychological help may also be beneficial. Talk with your GP to find out about a health care plan that includes Medicare rebates for allied health services, such as psychology.

Credentialled Diabetes Educator and Registered Nurse Elaine McLennan

Coffee in Perth on a Saturday morning is a great way to start the weekend.

During a recent visit to this beautiful part of the world for the Diabetes YOUnited national roadshow, I had the pleasure of meeting a remarkable person living with type 2 diabetes.

Lina di Franco was originally diagnosed with gestational diabetes over 30 years ago, and then, as so often happens, she later developed type 2 diabetes. A recent breast cancer battle also affected Lina’s life, and she knows first-hand how a serious health issue like that can affect a person, and impact their diabetes management.

Lina spoke to me about the power of support and how having people around her to connect with about diabetes has been a game changer. When Lina was first diagnosed with diabetes, she really noticed the stigma attached to the condition and found community support made the journey easier.

Lina has lived with diabetes for many years now and has a lot of hard-earned wisdom to share.

Hearing Lina’s story reminded me how different each person’s diabetes journey is, which is why Diabetes YOUnited is so essential. We launched this free, national membership program to ensure that all Australians with diabetes can access the resources and support they need, regardless of where they live or their financial situation.

As I continue to meet people across the country, I’m inspired by the strength and resilience of our diabetes community. Each story fuels our mission to make diabetes care more accessible and equitable.

Whether it’s a person who is newly diagnosed or someone like Lina who has decades of lived experience and a lot of wisdom to share, community lifts us all up. YOUnited we are stronger.

The “On the Go with the GCEO” series is amplifying the voices of people with lived experience of diabetes and frontline healthcare professionals to build awareness and drive policy change. Stay tuned as Justine continues her journey across Australia, meeting with more families and communities who inspire us all with their stories.

People living with diabetes are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, raising serious concerns that the situation is putting people’s health at significant risk. 

According to new data from Diabetes Australia, released on World Diabetes Day, more than 90 percent of people living with diabetes are anxious about the rising cost of living, and 75 percent are worried that managing their diabetes will become unaffordable in the future. 

Worryingly, half of survey respondents said cost of living pressures were negatively impacting their ability to manage their diabetes, which includes attending GP appointments, undertaking pathology tests and purchasing syringes to administer insulin.   

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said if people living with diabetes can’t afford regular access to health care and medication to manage their condition, the risk of diabetes-related complications increases dramatically. This also places significant burden on our health care system, as more people are hospitalised with life-threatening complications.

“Diabetes is a condition that needs to be actively managed. People are being forced to make impossible choices between health care and everyday living, and ultimately that can have devastating consequences,” Ms Cain said.  

“Diabetes costs the health care system around $3.4 billion every year and that cost is only going to increase if people can’t afford proper management which can lead to complications like kidney disease, heart attack and stroke.” 

To combat rising cost of living pressures, Diabetes Australia has announced it will provide free support to all Australians living with diabetes across the country, in a major push to see people with diabetes better supported.

“A person’s post code or bank balance should not be a barrier to good health,” said Ms Cain.  

“Diabetes Australia has been proudly supporting the community for decades and now, as pressure increases on people, our support is increasing too,” Ms Cain said. 

“That’s why we’re launching Diabetes YOUnited – a free national membership program to provide trusted support and information that is easy to access and will help people, no matter what their financial situation, to live well with diabetes. 

“It doesn’t matter where you live, from Bendigo or Broome; Bundaberg to Burnie and anywhere in between, Diabetes YOUnited is available for all Australians.  

“YOUnited we are stronger,” she said. 

From today a new free membership option is available nationwide. Everyone who joins the free service will have access to up-to-date information and education tools, personalised support, regular news and updates with expert insights and resources, as well as better connection to, and support from, Australia’s largest diabetes community.  

The rising cost of living is impacting the ability of people to access or afford primary care and GP services, causing them to disengage from health care, increasing their risk of complications and leading to gridlocked public hospitals.  

People are also struggling to know who to turn to in a complex environment – that’s why we’re offering support and information that’s simple and can help people.  

There’s also an option for people who choose to, and can afford it, to upgrade to receive additional services, but all Australians can access essential support at no cost. 

People who are already members of Diabetes Australia will automatically receive the upgrade to the paid option, known as Diabetes YOUnited Plus, which includes a range of new services and supports in addition to existing benefits.  

Key findings from the research released today paint a concerning picture of the cost of living challenges faced by people living with diabetes:  

• 66% reported spending more on diabetes management now than five years ago  
• 61% described the cost of accessing diabetes medicines and technology as their greatest challenge 
• 33% have been forced to cut costs related to their diabetes management  
• 44% are turning to cheaper, less healthy food options.   

Carers are also spending more, with 82% reporting an increase in their financial contributions to managing diabetes over the past five years.  

“These statistics are alarming, but they only tell part of the story,” said Ms Cain.   

“Overwhelmingly, Australians living with diabetes have also told us that they want better access to trusted information and support. They’re looking for better connection to community and support services that will help them live well.  

“Cost shouldn’t be a barrier to that support,” she said.  

Diabetes YOUnited will make it easier for more people to access Diabetes Australia’s community of support, trusted resources, and advocacy.  

By becoming a member, Australians can help amplify the voices of those most affected, ensuring that no one is left to navigate diabetes alone.  

To learn more about YOUnited and how you can support people living with diabetes, visit Diabetes Australia Membership on our website. 

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Most of us love the summer. It means warm weather, more opportunities for physical exercise, an abundance of fruit and vegetables, fresh air, vitamin D and generally feeling good. The down side is the hot Australian sun can be damaging to your health if you don’t take the necessary precautions.

Top tips for the beach

Like clockwork, when the weather warms up Aussies head out to the water. Swimming is a great way to socialise and be active, just keep in mind these safety guidelines. 

• Wear identification to alert people you have diabetes in case you get into trouble
• Pack plenty of snacks so you can stay longer if you want to
• Bring lots of water to drink so you keep well hydrated in the hot weather
• Don’t forget hypo treatment; glucose gel pouches are excellent as you can attach them to your swimmers with a safety pin when in the water
• Wear protective footwear especially if at the beach or on rocky/rough surfaces. Thongs should be worn at public pools to protect feet from infections such as tinea
• Make sure you swim in a well patrolled area, and never swim alone.

Blood glucose levels and hot sun

• Make sure your blood glucose levels are above 7mmol/L before starting any exercise, especially swimming
• In addition to testing your blood glucose levels prior to exercise you should also check every 30 minutes during exercise and within three hours after exercise
• If you have type 1 diabetes check for ketones if your blood glucose level is over 15mmol/L or the upper limit your healthcare team has set for you.

Pack snacks and fluid

If you are out for the day remember to have plenty of snacks and drinks on hand.

• Aim for 15-30gms of carbohydrate for every 30-60 minutes of mild to moderate intensity exercise
• It’s easy to forget to hydrate when you are swimming but it is important to maintain your fluid intake. Around 150-250mls every 15-20 minutes is recommended.

Insulin storage

You may have to take your insulin with you on a day out so storage is very important while in the hot sun.

• Pack a cooler pack preferably with an ice brick to keep your insulin cool but not cold. Don’t put the ice brick directly onto the insulin
• Store the cooler pack out of direct sunlight (room temperature for insulin is 25 degrees)
• Pack a small sharps container to dispose of any sharps that have been used
• Cooling wallets and cases are a great option for storing your diabetes equipment.

Insulin pumps

If you are using an insulin pump it is advisable to store the pump in a cool place out of the direct sunlight.

• Pack a cooler pack to keep your insulin cool but not cold
• Some pumps are waterproof; however, if swimming in the ocean it is best to disconnect so the pump doesn’t accidently get lost or damaged
• You can disconnect your pump while swimming but blood glucose levels should be tested at least every hour during this time to ensure you are safe
• Pack a small sharps container to dispose of any sharps that have been used
• Pack an extra cannula set change just in case you need it.

For safe summer fun:

• Pack extra hypo supplies/fast acting carbohydrates for the day
• Remember hypos can occur 12-24 hours post exercise so check your blood glucose levels regularly
• Keep up your fluids and drink regularly even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Upper body exercise may cause blood glucose levels to drop more, especially swimming
• Wear light coloured clothing and don’t forget to slip on a shirt, slop on some sun screen and slap on a hat. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 and ideally reapply every 90 minutes, and always after swimming.

Vulnerable people living in Melbourne will have better access to diabetes education thanks to a new partnership between Diabetes Australia and the Salvation Army.

As the national peak body, Diabetes Australia is joining with the Salvation Army in this critical initiative to support vulnerable people who are at risk of, or living with, diabetes.

This collaboration comes at a time when almost two million Australians are living with diagnosed and undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, and there are growing barriers to healthcare access among those experiencing homelessness.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said the partnership was about delivering essential diabetes care to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

“Diabetes is hurting our most vulnerable communities. It’s a condition that, if not managed, leads to devastating complications such as limb amputation, kidney disease, heart attack and vision loss,” Ms Cain said.

“Rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade, so we need new ideas and new partnerships that will make a tangible difference in people’s lives across Australia.

“As the national diabetes peak body, Diabetes Australia is committed to supporting all local communities impacted by diabetes across the country. During the next year, we are aiming to develop similar programs in other locations around Australia to ensure our most vulnerable get the support they need,” she said.

More than 2,500 people in the Melbourne region are living with type 2 diabetes, with statewide figures across Victoria showing more than 325,000 people are impacted by the condition.

Through the partnership, a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE) is attending the Magpie Nest Café in the Melbourne CBD each week and provides diabetes health services and information for people in the community experiencing significant vulnerability.

Salvation Army spokesperson Brendan Nottle said diabetes had become a growing concern for vulnerable communities in the area.

“Undiagnosed diabetes is an increasing issue amongst people who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness. The partnership with Diabetes Australia is literally helping save lives,” Mr Nottle said.

“We are deeply indebted to Diabetes Australia and all our partners who are engaged in critical work with some of the most vulnerable people in our city. On many occasions, they are helping keep people alive.”

The ACT Liberal Party has today announced a $4.4 million election commitment for type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes prevention and awareness.

Diabetes Australia has welcomed the commitment to deliver a type 2 diabetes prevention program similar to initiatives run by Diabetes Australia in Queensland and New South Wales, and a gestational diabetes community education campaign.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO, Justine Cain, said this commitment was good news for the ACT and the organisation would welcome a matched commitment from the Labor Government.

“Type 2 diabetes prevention programs are proven and powerful, and we need every government to prioritise them,” Ms Cain said.

“Over the past decade, the total number of Australians living with all types diabetes has risen by 32%.

“Right now in the ACT, over 16,000 people are living with type 2 diabetes, and nearly 1000 more are living with gestational diabetes.

“Unfortunately, diabetes is the leading cause of many costly and debilitating complications including vision loss, amputation, kidney failure and heart disease. It is the underlying cause of death in around 11% of all deaths in Australia.

“Prevention programs like those Diabetes Australia delivers in other states are at the frontline of efforts to help combat Australia’s diabetes epidemic,” she said.

Investment in high-risk prevention has been proven cost effective with every $1 invested generating savings of $14.

Research shows type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed in up to 58% of cases if people are provided with access to appropriate healthcare and support.

“That’s why the commitment to establish a local prevention program here in the ACT to connect people who are at risk of type 2 diabetes with basic health coaching and support is so important,” Ms Cain said.

Prevention of gestational diabetes is also critical for the health of mothers and babies. Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of the mother and the baby developing type 2 diabetes later in life, with women who have previously been diagnosed with gestational diabetes seven times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Children born to mothers with gestational diabetes are also at higher risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.

Diabetes Australia has a strong track record in delivering prevention programs in the community. The My Health for Life preventative health program in Queensland has delivered successful results including:

• 50% of participants met and continue to meet physical activity guidelines
• 66% of participants reported reduced wait circumference
• 50% of participants reported improved quality of life

About type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body becomes resistant to the normal effects of insulin and gradually loses the capacity to produce enough insulin in the pancreas.

The condition has strong genetic and family-related (non-modifiable) risk factors and is also often associated with modifiable lifestyle risk factors.

Type 2 diabetes can cause serious complications to all systems of the body. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in working age adults; the leading cause of kidney failure and dialysis; it increases the risk of heart attacks and stroke by up to four times; it is a major cause of limb amputations; and it affects a person’s mental health.

About gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurs during pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes can still have a healthy baby but it is important that gestational diabetes is managed to reduce the risk of developing complications during pregnancy.  

Gestational diabetes can increase the risk of the mother and the baby developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Gestational diabetes is diagnosed when higher than normal blood glucose levels first appear during pregnancy. Most women with gestational diabetes will no longer have diabetes after the baby is born.

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Media: Monica Rostron 0409 126 332 mrostron@diabetesaustralia.com.au

In any given year, one million Australian adults suffer from depression, and around two million suffer from anxiety. Given these statistics, it’s no wonder mental health has become an important topic of conversation.

Depression

Depression affects how you feel about yourself and makes day to day life more difficult to manage. It is not a sign of personal weakness, failure, or “all in the mind”. It can happen to anyone. Biological factors (brain chemistry, genes and personality traits), life events (trauma or long-term stress), as well as illness are just some of the factors that contribute to developing depression. It is a complex condition and research is ongoing to understand exactly what happens in the brain to cause depression.

The Australian Centre for Behavioural Research in Diabetes (ACBRD) conducted a study that found that nearly half (47%) of all people with diabetes in Australia have experienced a mental health challenge because of their diabetes in the past 12 months.

Having a medical condition, such as diabetes, can trigger depression in two ways. Serious conditions can bring about depression directly, or can contribute to depression through associated stress and worry, especially if it involves long-term management, such as in diabetes.

The treatment for depression and diabetes involves a coordinated approach that monitors both diabetes management and the symptoms of depression. It is about finding the treatment that works best for each person. Some people with diabetes and mild depression may find that regular physical activity improves depressed moods, and also helps control blood glucose levels.

The science behind the reason to exercise

Studies show increases in circulating beta endorphins after exercise promotes a good mood, increases your pain threshold and helps with the growth of new brain cells. Certain types of exercise also increase testosterone levels in both men and women, which is thought to have a protective effect against depression. Additionally, the binding of stress chemicals, such as adrenaline, with muscles produces a more relaxed state of mind.

What exercise? How often? How hard?

A comprehensive Australian study demonstrated that moderate to high-intensity resistance training, performed two to three times per week, is more effective than low-intensity resistance training for people with depression. However, given the degree of complexity with diabetes and depression, it is important to exercise at an intensity that is appropriate for you. Check in with your GP or an accredited exercise physiologist to assess what level is right for you.

Active hobbies

Find an active hobby that you enjoy and plan to do it regularly. Team sports are a great way to meet new people, benefit from collaboration, communication and stay motivated (because your team is relying on you). Other active hobbies to consider could include bowling, dancing, joining a walking group, golfing, tai chi classes or rowing. Perhaps try something completely different such as joining a drama class – you’ll be exercising your brain as well as your body, and benefitting from group work. Take a look at what’s on offer at your local community centre or search online.

Yoga

Yoga has been shown to enhance mood. Higher intensity yoga with an emphasis on mindfulness tends to have a better impact on mood than low-intensity, low focus yoga. Yoga has also been shown to help reduce perceived stress and anxiety, which in turn can help lower your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate.

Get outside

Try to get outside to exercise to get your daily dose of vitamin D. Outdoor exercise or “green exercise” may provide additional mental health benefits, especially when it comes to managing stress, anxiety and mood. One theory is that outdoor exercise may reduce neural activity to the area in your brain which is responsible for, among other things, repetitively processing negative feelings and thoughts. Next time you are feeling low, try some outdoor exercise such as a local walking trail, park or public garden that is away from the urban sprawl. Even a spot of gardening will give you an extra physical boost. Even better, get involved with a community garden. Not only will you be getting a vitamin D fix and a physical workout, but also social interaction with other people. A triple whammy to stimulate your happy hormones.

Did you know?

• Nearly half of all Australians (43%) will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.
• Moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms affect one in three people with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes; one in five people with non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes; and one in four people with type 1 diabetes. This is two to three times more than the general population.
• Feeling down or sad does not necessarily mean that you have a mental health condition. It is normal for your mood to go up and down, particularly as the seasons change.

More information

If you would like further information about depression and it’s symptoms you can refer to the Black Dog Institute website www.blackdoginstitute.org.au  or the Beyond Blue website www.beyondblue.org.au . Alternatively, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

For help with exercise talk your GP, or call the NDSS Helpline on 1800 637 700 and ask to speak to an credentialled exercise physiologist.

Diabetes Australia RN/CDE Carolien Koreneff does a finger prick test on Cook MP Simon Kennedy during the Health Checks and Tech event in Parliament House.

Diabetes Australia held an important Health Check and Tech event at Parliament House in Canberra this week. Group CEO Justine Cain joined people living with diabetes, CDEs and Health Professionals to speak with Senators and MPs about the essential health checks and technologies that support people living with diabetes to live well.

Co-Chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes group, Graham Perrett MP and Rowan Ramsey MP, were among the first to participate, along with Dr Mike Freelander MP, Chair of the Health, Aged Care and Sport Committee.

Our nation’s decisionmakers underwent a health check, including HbA1c, cholesterol, blood pressure and heart health, and heard about the importance of these vital health checks. Diabetes Australia’s campaign to Unite for Tech also continued, as we highlighted the need for more equitable access to insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring devices.

The health check event was a great opportunity for MPs to learn more about diabetes technology and the importance of early detection and prevention of the condition.