Australia has an alarming but preventable health crisis on its hands: an obesity epidemic that is spiralling out of control. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, almost one-third of the nation’s adults are obese, and one-quarter of children are facing overweight issues, and rates are rising.
The consequences of this high rate of obesity have a significant impact on the nation. According to the ABC, people who are overweight are more likely to suffer long-term health problems such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. Obesity also costs tax payers billions of dollars each year.
It’s important, however, that overweight and obese people are not burdened with a sense of shame regarding their health issues. The reasons behind the epidemic are complex, including cultural and environmental factors. As reported in The Sydney Morning Herald, Professor Stephen Simpson, executive director of Obesity Australia, states that we need to avoid blaming individuals for the health crisis, as we are trapped “in an obesity environment.” It doesn’t help, for example, that information in the media, particularly advertisements for food products, can be misleading.
There is much the government can do to encourage positive change, such as making it easier for people to use bicycles, placing a tax on sugary drinks, changing the food available in school canteens, and putting restrictions on junk food advertising. The Australian government are considering recommendations such as these, but progress is slow.
How Mind for Life can help
In the meantime, public health education can play an important role in addressing the problem. Health messages can be confusing, and even conflicting, particularly when it comes from unreliable sources. Mind for Life can help by bringing you information from a range of health professionals who have a holistic approach and an understanding of the interconnection between obesity and mental health. They are here to support the community via video production and free workshops.
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