HERVEY Bay can never be questioned for it’s natural beauty and serene environment that the choice of lifestyle is typically high on the priorities for identifying the region as a home.
It’s natural beauty and potential for an active lifestyle positions the growing city into a category that undeniably resonates with a term called “wellness”.
So what is wellness?
The concepts of mental health and wellness have garnered significant attention, underscoring their essential role in leading a fulfilling and balanced life. While they are often used interchangeably, mental health and wellness are distinct yet interconnected aspects of our overall well-being.
Understanding the relationship between these two can help individuals foster a holistic approach to health, leading to improved quality of life and resilience in the face of challenges.
The relationship between mental health and wellness is symbiotic, where each influence and enhances the other. Good mental health contributes significantly to overall wellness, while a strong state of wellness can support and improve mental health.
Local Clinical Psychologist, Dr May Chi, says it’s an important discussion with understanding the relationship between mental health and wellness.
“Terms like mental health and wellness have become so broad that it is difficult to know what we are referring to when we use these terms.”
“Health is fundamentally the absence of illness. When we are not sick or injured, everything is easier to do. Wellness is the sense of fulfillment in our life; being able to succeed in what we want to do, and being content in what we are doing.
“It’s hard to have wellness when you do not have good mental health.”
The recently popular term usage of “wellness” has an association with health, with the aim of improving physical and mental conditions that “health” incorporates.
The Australian Institute of Health & Welfare defines wellbeing as “physical, mental and social wellbeing is affected by an individual’s perceptions, emotions and behaviour as well as their ease of movement and levels of any discomfort. Mental health is fundamental to the wellbeing of individuals, their families and the community as a whole. Wellbeing can be measured by self-assessed health status and the prevalence of psychological distress in the population.”
When we research our region and the services available, we find the definition can be segmented in many ways:
• Physical wellness
• Emotional wellness
• Financial wellness
• Social wellness
• Spiritual wellness
• Occupational wellness
• Environmental wellness
This list could go on but it’s the elements of our day to day lives that all require a wellness strategy.
One of the most important assets for a region as a wellness destination is the environment and the natural beauty Hervey Bay inherits is the envy of most other Australian locations. The Bay itself is sheltered by a background of the world’s largest sand island – K’gari Fraser Island. A coastline with a backdrop that doesn’t get more tranquil than our favourite island in the world.
A coastline that provides one of the safest beaches in Queensland for families to enjoy and regular walkers provide stunning images of a sunrise. The complimentary abundance of green spaces ensures locals and visitors can always find a quite spot to relax and reflect.
The Botanic Gardens and the Esplanade offer peaceful settings that often we witness meditation, yoga, or a simple leisurely walk surely is enough evidence of the appropriateness to wellness.
The endless outdoor activities is supported by weather that again is the envy of most Australians. The growing popularity of cycling continues to grow with people appreciating the stunning views of the ocean while on water it’s kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing in the calm waters that draws people from all over the world.
Events such as the Hervey Bay 100 & 50 triathlon events are recognised nationally for the authentic course and being embraced by residents who line our coastline. The challenge of a Gatakers Hill bike climb with unpredictable open water swims has added to the November annual event natural elements many locals have grown up with.
A key aspect of wellness is nutrition, and Hervey Bay does not disappoint. The town boasts a variety of dining options that focus on healthy, locally-sourced ingredients. The abundance of markets, including the Torquay Beachside and Urangan Pier Markets, is growing in popularity, offering fresh produce, organic goods, and craft products.
Cafes and restaurants in Hervey Bay frequently feature menus that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. The different cuisines now on offer is proving to gain a reputation for the region that tourists are rarely lacking choices.
The sense of community in Hervey Bay is another factor that contributes to its wellness appeal. Numerous events and workshops focused on health and wellness, from fitness boot camps and yoga classes on the beach to wellness seminars and mental health workshops have developed our thinking about all aspects of health.
These events foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for individuals to connect with like-minded people who share their commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
Occupational wellness, which entails finding satisfaction and enrichment in one’s work, also contributes to mental health. A fulfilling job can provide a sense of purpose, achievement, and financial stability, all of which are crucial for mental wellbeing. Conversely, job-related stress and dissatisfaction can lead to mental health issues, highlighting the importance of a balanced work life.
Hervey Bay has too long been recognised for it’s high unemployment levels, particularly in youth, but a buoyant local economy has seen a reduced unemployment rates that regularly was 10%+ the previous decade.
The opportunity for the region is to leverage the growing jobs market with best practices by employers to retain staff and create positive environments for people to develop professionally and with considerations for their mental health.
The Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre has produced a publication – The Little Yellow Book: Wellness Guide” that lists the services available to our region.
These include Hotlines, Medical Services such as Hospitals & Medical Centres, Fitness Centres, Counselling, Psychology and other health services. It also Massage and Spa locations as well as Wellness focused services.
What is obvious is that with over 200 organisations having services available to support your mental health and wellness, we are very fortunate to call Hervey Bay our home.
The directory can be found on their website with the following link www.hbnc.com.au/the-little-yellow-book-wellness-guide
Hervey Bay is more than just a beautiful city. It is a sanctuary for those seeking to enhance their wellbeing and enjoy the natural assets and services available that can support an inner happiness we all search for. Its stunning natural landscapes, abundant outdoor activities, wellness organisations and healthy dining options, and strong sense of community make it an ideal destination for anyone looking to achieve a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.