How Professor Catherine Bennett has ‘restored the balance’ – and why women need to put themselves first
COVID-19 has been tough on everyone, and it might be hard to think of someone who’s been busier or more involved in the pandemic response than Deakin’s very own Chair in Epidemiology, Alfred Deakin Professor Catherine Bennett.
Catherine has been one of the faces of the COVID response in Australia, working non-stop to provide clear, simple and expert advice on many aspects of the pandemic. You’ve probably seen her on various news bulletins or read her public health guidance in different news outlets.
But working so intensely over a prolonged period will take a toll on anyone – as Catherine has lived, and as many women know from personal experience.
That’s why this Women’s Health Week – which runs from Monday 5 to Sunday 11 September and is dedicated to the health of women, girls and gender-diverse people – Catherine is sharing some lifestyle insights and joining in our call: ‘Women of Deakin, it’s time to put yourself first!’
Now’s the time to implement some positive changes that can last a lifetime! Women’s Health Week is all about helping women find connection, information and support on being healthy in mind and body. We’re highlighting three key areas that you can focus on, regardless of study, family commitments or other priorities.
Check me out – health checks at every age
Women should have regular health checks to stay well or pick up early warning signs of any disease or illness. You can also make self-checking part of your regular routine – from your skin to your breasts.
Catherine says:
I didn’t have a break for most of the last two years, and now am starting to build back in these key relax and reconnect strategies! But I still did what I could, and saw a physiotherapist for a few preventative massages, especially working on my back and neck areas where computer work and the stress from being in the public eye so much tend to concentrate!
Mind health – mental wellbeing and brain health
Women have a lot to deal with, regardless of age or stage of life! Zero in on your mental wellbeing and brain health, and learn simple changes you can make to support your mind health.
Catherine says:
No matter how much you think that sacrificing your work–life–fitness balance is worth it, or that it will be a short-lived impost, you must be prepared for the demands on you being a marathon not a sprint. It should not be health and fitness that are sacrificed. Make sure you surround yourself with people who will look out for you, speak out if worried about you and help you restore the balance.
Move and improve – physical activity and your health
The ‘exercise regularly’ mantra is everywhere, but learn why physical activity of any kind has great benefits for your body and brain, and how to make movement a part of your daily life.
Catherine says:
I have always been a walker and like to do this alone where it’s a form of meditation to me, but also a great way to connect with my partner, colleagues or friends. I’m able to start making more time for walking again now – exercise was difficult when doing such long days, mainly in front of a computer screen. I also love to travel, and my partner and I walk everywhere or use public transport when travelling overseas.
We’re also hearing from other inspiring female voices of Deakin during the week, so keep an eye on Deakin Life Insta for more personal stories and advice from students and staff.
Your health and wellbeing matters to us
Women’s health can be complicated, so at Deakin we provide a range of tailored support services to help you feel your best while you study. Many women prefer to see female health professionals, and the Deakin Medical Centre offers female doctors and nurses at each campus for:
- breast checks and cervical screening tests
- immunisations, including the HPV vaccine
- management of pelvic pain and irregular periods
- reproductive health, including pregnancy choice and contraception options, and STI testing
- menopause and continence management
- iron infusions to treat iron deficiency anaemia
- mental health counselling.
Keen to learn more?
- Visit the Women’s Health Week website for heaps more info and inspo, including free health articles, podcasts, recipes, events and online activities.
- Check out what DeakinACTIVE is doing for Women’s Health Week and This Girl Can Week (12–18 September) – from free group fitness classes to personal stories from Deakin students and staff.
- Make the most of the following resources and organisations:
- MSI Australia is an independently accredited and safe abortion, vasectomy and contraception provider.
- Butterfly provides support for eating disorders and body image issues.
- Sexual Health Victoria, Melbourne Sexual Health Centre and Jean Hailes promote women’s and sexual health.
- If you’re experiencing family violence and don’t have someone to talk to, contact Deakin’s Safer Community service or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).