How do you prepare your child — and yourself — for one of the biggest parenting milestones so far: starting school?

Welcome to the final episode of Parents' Group, season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask by Queensland Health. This week, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin talk about what it means to send your little one off to school, whether they’re ready, whether you’re ready, or whether you're still figuring that out.

We’re joined by clinical nurse, Mel, who shares what school readiness really looks like (spoiler: it’s not about counting to 100) and how to navigate everything from routines and emotional independence to your own feelings of grief, pride and identity shifts as a parent.

You’ll also hear from Chris and Hannah as they thoughtfully prepare their daughter, who has ADHD, for her first year at school, and reflect on what they’ve learned along the way.

Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available.

In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000).

The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations.

1. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.
3. Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
4. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child.
5. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
6. MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.
7. Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.
8. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.
9. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.
10. ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm.
11. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.
12. Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts.
13. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and carers of children under 12.
14. Queensland Health Child Health Clinics: Child health services have clinics across the state to provide parenting information and support for families in Queensland. Free services may include nutrition, child growth and development assessments. You need to book an appointment for these services.

Disclaimer

The stories and conversations shared by the hosts in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences, and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.

If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

How do you support your child through their first big friendships, growing independence and never-ending questions while also navigating your own parenting triggers?

Welcome to episode 7 of Parents' Group, season 4 of It Can’t Hurt to Ask, a podcast by Queensland Health. This week, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin explore the wild ride that is parenting a three-to-four-year-old, from kindy transitions and emotional blow-ups to rediscovering your own inner child (whether you want to or not).

Early Intervention Clinician Karen is back to help us understand what’s really happening at this age: socially, emotionally, and developmentally. We chat about preparing kids for kindy, helping them navigate friendships, and how to manage the complex feelings this stage brings up in us as parents, too.

Follow It Can’t Hurt to Ask for future episodes and share with any parent who could use a warm, wise voice in their ear.

Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available.

In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000).

The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations.

1. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.
3. Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
4. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child.
5. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
6. MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.
7. Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.
8. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.
9. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.
10. ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm.
11. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.
12. Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts.
13. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and carers of children under 12.
14. Queensland Health Child Health Clinics: Child health services have clinics across the state to provide parenting information and support for families in Queensland. Free services may include nutrition, child growth and development assessments. You need to book an appointment for these services.

Disclaimer

The stories and conversations shared by the hosts in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences, and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.

If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

How do you talk to your two-year-old about emotions and discipline while barely managing your own meltdown?

Welcome to Episode 6 of Parents' Group, Season 4 of It Can't Hurt To Ask by Queensland Health. This week, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin unpack the chaos and connection that comes with parenting a two-to-three-year-old, from public tantrums and constant 'but why?' questions to emotional breakthroughs and bedtime battles.

Early Intervention Clinician Karen joins us to explain what’s actually happening during toddler outbursts, how to help your child (and yourself) co-regulate, and what 'discipline' can look like when we focus on building emotional safety. We also explore how to support different family structures and keep relationships strong when co-parents don’t always agree.

You’ll also hear from Katie, a single parent navigating these years with support from her family—a beautiful reminder that you don’t have to do this alone.

Follow It Can’t Hurt to Ask for future episodes and share with any parent who could use a warm, wise voice in their ear.

Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available.

In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000).

The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations.

1. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.
3. Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
4. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child.
5. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
6. MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.
7. Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.
8. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.
9. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.
10. ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm.
11. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.
12. Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts.
13. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and carers of children under 12.
14. Queensland Health Child Health Clinics: Child health services have clinics across the state to provide parenting information and support for families in Queensland. Free services may include nutrition, child growth and development assessments. You need to book an appointment for these services.

Disclaimer

The stories and conversations shared by the hosts in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences, and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.

If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Is your toddler finding their independence while you’re still figuring out yours?

In Episode 5 of Parent’s Group, Season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask, your hosts Caitlin, Steph and Alex explore the one-to-two-year mark; a time full of transitions, tug-of-war feelings, and late-night comparisons.

Clinical Nurse Megan is back to talk about returning to work, toddler separation anxiety, navigating guilt, and why your connection matters more than hitting milestones.

We also hear from Shahedah and Sufyaan about what it’s really like returning to work as parents of a baby and toddler, and how they’re making it work as a team.

Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available.

In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000).

The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations.

1. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.
3. Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
4. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child.
5. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
6. MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.
7. Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.
8. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.
9. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.
10. ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm.
11. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.
12. Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts.
13. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and carers of children under 12.
14. Queensland Health Child Health Clinics: Child health services have clinics across the state to provide parenting information and support for families in Queensland. Free services may include nutrition, child growth and development assessments. You need to book an appointment for these services.

Disclaimer:

The stories and conversations shared by the hosts in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences, and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.

If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

What happens when your baby starts moving, and your sense of identity starts shifting?

In Episode 4 of Parents' Group, Season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask by Queensland Health, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin talk about the 3–12 month stage of parenting: the joy, the overstimulation, and the weird feeling of not quite recognising yourself anymore.

Child Health Nurse Megan joins us to explain what emotional development looks like in babies, why it’s okay to feel 'touched out,' and how to connect with your little one and yourself during this stage.

We also hear from Brittney, a mum navigating early parenthood while living in a regional town, who shares honestly about isolation and identity.

Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available.

In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000).

The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations.

1. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.
3. Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
4. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child.
5. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
6. MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.
7. Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.
8. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.
9. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.
10. ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm.
11. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.
12. Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts.
13. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and carers of children under 12.
14. Queensland Health Child Health Clinics: Child health services have clinics across the state to provide parenting information and support for families in Queensland. Free services may include nutrition, child growth and development assessments. You need to book an appointment for these services.

Disclaimer

The stories and conversations shared by the hosts in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences, and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.

If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

The 'fourth trimester' is real—and it’s a rollercoaster.

In Episode 3 of Parents' Group, Season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask by Queensland Health, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin talk about the first three months of life with a newborn. From sleep deprivation and birth trauma, to bonding with your baby and adjusting to new identities, this episode unpacks why early parenting can feel beautiful, brutal, and everything in between.

They’re joined by Nicki, a Lived Experience Coordinator from the Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health, who shares insights on the realities of the 'fourth trimester', signs of perinatal mental health challenges, and where to find support. You’ll also hear powerful personal stories from parents navigating recovery, exhaustion, shifting relationships, and the gap between expectations and reality.

Because if you’ve ever wondered 'am I the only one who feels like this?'... you’re probably not. ❤️

Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available.

In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000).

The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations.

1. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.
3. Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
4. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
5. MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.
6. Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.
7. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.
8. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.
9. ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm.
10. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.
11. Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts.
12. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and carers of children under 12.
13. Queensland Health Child Health Clinics: Child health services have clinics across the state to provide parenting information and support for families in Queensland. Free services may include nutrition, child growth and development assessments. You need to book an appointment for these services.

Disclaimer:

The stories and conversations shared by the hosts in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences, and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.

If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Pregnancy is often associated with glowing skin and cute baby bumps—but what about when it feels more like nausea, anxiety, and endless 3am Google searches?

In Episode 2 of Parents' Group, Season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin talk about pregnancy and mental wellbeing. From morning sickness and mood swings to bonding with your baby before they’re born, this episode explores the emotional side of pregnancy that doesn’t always get much airtime.

They’re joined by Anna, a midwife from the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, who shares practical tips for managing morning sickness, preparing mentally for birth, and knowing when it’s time to seek support. You’ll also hear from Aimee, who shares her honest experience of pregnancy sickness and finding small ways to connect with her baby.

Because while pregnancy can be joyful, it can also be overwhelming—and you don’t have to go through it alone.

Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available.

In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).

The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations.

1. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.
3. Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
4. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
5. MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.
6. Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.
7. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.
8. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.
9. ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm.
10. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.
11. Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts.
12. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and carers of children under 12.
13. Queensland Health Child Health Clinics: Child health services have clinics across the state to provide parenting information and support for families in Queensland. Free services may include nutrition, child growth and development assessments. You need to book an appointment for these services.

Disclaimer:

The stories and conversations shared by the hosts in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences, and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.

If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

What if there was a parents' group you could join from anywhere... one that was honest, supportive, and always had a laugh (or a cry) when you needed it most?

In Episode 1 of Parent’s Group, Season 4 of It Can’t Hurt To Ask by Queensland Health, your hosts Steph, Alex and Caitlin kick off the season by welcoming you into this virtual parent’s group. Together, they share their own parenting journeys — the highs, the challenges, and the messy middle — and set the scene for what’s to come this season.

This series will explore the first 2,000 days of your child’s life, from pregnancy through to starting school, with a focus on supporting parents’ mental wellbeing. You’ll hear expert advice from Queensland Health clinicians alongside honest, real stories from parents across the state.

Because no matter what stage you’re in, whether you’re soaking up the joy or counting down to bedtime, you’re not alone.

Resources:

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental wellbeing, support is available.

In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000).

The following services can provide help and counselling to you in non-emergency situations.

1. 13HEALTH: call 13 43 25 84 and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: call 1800 822 436 to speak with a trained counsellor about the first year of your child’s life.
3. Parentline: call 1300 301 300 for advice and counselling about any issue that affects you as a parent. Available from 6am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week.
4. Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA): contact PANDA on 1300 726 306 or chat online if you or your partner are feeling depressed, or you are struggling after the birth of your child. Available from Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
5. MensLine Australia: call 1300 789 978 if you’re a man and have family or relationship concerns. Available 24 hours a day.
6. Lifeline: call 13 11 14 (24 hours a day) if you are experiencing a personal crisis or chat to a counsellor online.
7. Beyond Blue: call 1300 22 463 for broad mental wellbeing support or speak to a counsellor online.
8. Connecting2u: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips for during pregnancy and after you have your baby.
9. ForWhen: call 1300 24 23 22. Available Monday – Friday 9.00am–4.30pm.
10. SMS4DADS: sign up for free text messages, support, info and tips – for dads and dads-to-be.
11. Raising Children Network: offers ad-free parenting videos, articles and apps backed by Australian experts.
12. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program: free parenting courses for parents and carers of children under 12.
13. Queensland Health Child Health Clinics: Child health services have clinics across the state to provide parenting information and support for families in Queensland. Free services may include nutrition, child growth and development assessments. You need to book an appointment for these services.

Disclaimer

The stories and conversations shared by the hosts in this podcast reflect their personal views, experiences, and opinions. They are shared for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Queensland Health does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the views expressed by guests and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage that may result from relying on this content.

If you have questions about your health or treatment, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

It Can't Hurt To Ask is back!

This season, we’re diving into the different challenges each stage of parenthood presents — from pregnancy through to the preschool years.  

You'll hear real stories from Queensland mums and dads navigating the ups and downs of early parenthood, alongside expert clinicians sharing practical advice, insights and answers to the questions, concerns and curiosities every parent has.

Catch the first episode to meet your informal 'Parents' Group' when it drops on this feed next week. New episodes will be released weekly.

We hope you'll join us. After all, it can't hurt to ask!

This season of It Can't Hurt To Ask, we're taking a deep dive into your men's health questions and concerns.

In this episode we're exploring how you can say fit, strong, and resilient as you age. Whether you're 25 or 45, it's never too early to start laying the foundations for healthy ageing.

Our featured expert is Dr Eric Chung, professor of surgery at the University of Queensland and a consultant urologist at the Princess Alexandra Hospital. He's here to share tips to unlock your best self now and into the future.

You'll hear from Queensland men, Andrew and Kevin, who share their experiences and views on staying healthy at any age.

Learn about the many factors affecting ageing well. Besides the more obvious ones, such as a healthy diet and exercise, you'll also hear about the effects of risky behaviours, family history, chronic conditions, substance use, mental wellbeing, social connectedness, happiness, and even your sex life, on healthy ageing.

If you'd like to learn more about men's health, listen to the other men's health episodes in this brand-new season.

Please leave us a review—we'd love to hear your thoughts.

Episode Resources:

Ageing well

Everyone deserves to live well and maintain their health and independence into the future. To learn more, visit the Australian Government's websites: Positive ageing is ageing well and Tips for healthy ageing.

Many factors influence healthy ageing. Some of these, such as genetics, are not in our control. Others—such as exercise, a healthy diet, going to the doctor regularly, and taking care of our mental health—are within our reach.

Exercise

Physical activity is important at any age for good physical and mental health and wellbeing. It reduces the risk of many diseases, including some cancers. Learn how much exercise you should be doing and how to fit it into your day by reading the Physical activity and exercise guidelines for all Australians and the Choose Health, Be Active booklet.

Diet

Making smart food choices can help protect you from certain health problems as you age and may even help improve brain function. Visit the Australian guide to healthy eating for more information.

Mental health and wellbeing

Mental health, or mental wellness, is essential to your overall health and quality of life. It affects how we think, feel, act, make choices, and relate to others. Managing social isolation, loneliness, stress, depression, and mood through medical and self-care is key to healthy ageing.

If you feel that you may be in need of mental health support and have never accessed a mental health service before, our mental health access line 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) is available 24/7. This is a confidential mental health telephone triage service and is the first point of contact to Queensland public mental health services.

Organisations like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) and the Men's Shed Association are also available to provide mental wellbeing support. Find your local Men's shed location to connect with your community face-to-face, or speak to a Beyond Blue counsellor online or by phone.

Preventive health

Looking after your body and mind by getting vaccinated and avoiding risky behaviours – like smoking or drinking too much – can prevent many diseases and keep you healthy and well.

If you're concerned about your own or someone else's alcohol and other drugs use. Call Adis 24/7 Alcohol and Drug Support on 1800 177 833. You can also visit their website for more information or to chat with a counsellor online.

If you’re thinking about quitting smoking or vaping or are ready to quit contact Quitline on 13 78 48 or request a Quitline call by visiting their website.

This season of It Can't Hurt To Ask, we're taking a deep dive into your men's health questions and concerns.

This episode, we’re talking about chronic conditions—complex health conditions that can be long term or lifelong—and how genes and lifestyle can increase or decrease a man's risk.

Chronic conditions are the leading cause of illness, disability and death in Australia, where over half of our population lives with at least one. They include cancer, heart disease, diabetes, kidney and autoimmune disease, vascular, lung, neurological and mental health conditions, and more.

Our featured expert is urologist and Professor of Surgery, Dr Eric Chung, who shares his deep knowledge of what affects men’s health and how many chronic conditions are preventable or manageable.

You'll also hear from Queensland men, Sam and Dan, who share their life experiences with chronic conditions such as hypertension, stroke, and chronic pain.

What are the effects of genetics, diet, exercise, sleep, and stress on your chances of developing a chronic condition? How can technology help to reduce your risk? Where can you seek support? Listen to find out.

If you'd like to learn more about men's health, listen to other men's health episodes in our brand-new season. Also listen out for our final episode this season, where we explore how Queensland men can age well.

Please leave us a review—we'd love to hear your thoughts.

Episode resources:

Chronic conditions

Many Australians live with chronic conditions, which can cause illness, disability and even death. Chronic conditions can lower your quality of life and may affect your independence.

You can take an active role in managing and preventing chronic conditions. You can work with your GP and specialist to manage your condition, reduce your risk and improve your quality of life.

To learn more, visit the Australian Government's chronic conditions website.

Where to get help

13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) is a confidential phone service that provides health advice to Queenslanders. You can phone and talk to a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the cost of a local call. 13 HEALTH provides qualified health advice—it is not a diagnostic service and should not replace medical consultation. In an emergency always call Triple Zero (000).

Virtual emergency care is also available in Queensland. Visit our Virtual Emergency Care Service between 8am - 10pm for free specialist emergency care services, by telephone or video conferencing. You can also access the Health Direct symptom checker.

If you feel that you may be in need of mental health support and have never accessed a mental health service before, our mental health access line 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) is available 24/7. This is a confidential mental health telephone triage service and is the first point of contact to Queensland public mental health services.

Organisations like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) and the Men's Shed Association are also available to provide mental wellbeing support. Find your local Men's shed location to connect with your community face-to-face, or speak to a Beyond Blue counsellor online or by phone.