Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith encourages the Penrith community to consider the emotional toll that diabetes can have on those with diabetes or those caring for someone with diabetes during National Diabetes Week, “Diabetes and a Healthy Mind”.
“In Penrith there are approximately 2,600 people with diabetes and Diabetes Week is the ideal time to consider the emotional effects as well as the physical,” Stuart Ayres said.
Diabetes is a chronic illness and such illnesses can take a large toll over a person’s lifetime.
This year’s theme, “Diabetes and a Healthy Mind” seeks to highlight the impact of diabetes upon the mental health not only of the person diagnosed, but also their family and friends.
For National Diabetes Week 2014, Nepean Hospitals Diabetes Service will host a stand in the South Block during the week to highlight the information and services they have on offer to assist those with diabetes. The stand will be manned by qualified staff and provide written and verbal information to interested people. A screening tool to assess an individual’s risk of type 2 diabetes will also be available.
Tips from Diabetes NSW to keep a healthy body and mind:
Stay active, regular exercise can improve health and fitness;
- Get 8 hours of sleep;
- Reduce alcohol intake;
- Eat a healthy diet full of fresh vegetables and fruits.
National Diabetes week runs from 13-19 July 2014.
Nepean Diabetes Service supports the people of Penrith, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Portland. For additional information they may be contacted on 02 4734 3974.
