Health Resource Directory

Domestic and family violence can take many forms. This type of violence does not discriminate and can impact anyone, creating fear and anxiety in families. This page has information and supports for people and their loved ones about domestic abuse and violence.

If you are at risk of domestic and family violence, you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones in case of an emergency. This is safety planning. This page includes information about how to safely leave a bad situation and supports for you and your loved ones.

Sexual assault encompasses any sexual behavior that makes someone feel uncomfortable, frightened, intimidated, or threatened. Consent is key, and any sexual assault is a serious crime. This page has information about sexual assault and includes support options.

What is antipsychotic medication? Psychosis is a serious mental health condition. It is when a person cannot tell the difference...

What is anxiety? Anxiety is when you feel anxious or stressed without a clear reason. It is the most common...

What is bereavement, grief and loss? Bereavement is the process of coping with the death of a family member or...

What is depression? Depression is a mental health condition that affects your mood. One in six people will experience depression...

What is a disaster? A disaster can include heatwaves, bushfires, droughts, floods, severe storms and tropical cyclones, earthquakes, tsunamis and...

What is problem gambling? Some people can gamble responsibly, but others find it hard to stop. Gambling becomes a problem...

What is self-harm? Self-harm is when someone purposely hurts a part of their body. Some common forms of self-harm are...

What are suicidal thoughts? Sometimes, people have thoughts about wanting to harm themselves or end their life. These thoughts may...

What is anaemia? Anaemia is when your body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. This reduces the oxygen...

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can cause pain and swelling and, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as a pulmonary embolism. This page has information about DVT and where you can get support.

What is haemochromatosis? Haemochromatosis causes the body to absorb too much iron from food. The condition is genetic, which means...

Hypertension is another name for high blood pressure. It can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke, if not managed properly. This page has information on how o manage your hypertension and where you can find support.

What is iron deficiency anaemia? Iron deficiency anaemia is a type of anaemia caused by a lack of iron. You...

What is a pulmonary embolism? A pulmonary embolism is when a blood clot blocks the arteries that supply blood to...

What is acute leukaemia? Acute leukaemia is a type of blood cancer. It happens when the body makes too many...

What is bowel cancer? Bowel cancer is cancer that affects the colon or rectum. It is also called colorectal cancer....

What is chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)? Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a type of blood cancer. It affects the white...

What is endometrial cancer? Endometrial cancer is cancer that starts in the uterus. Most women who get this type of...

What is a family risk of breast or ovarian cancer? Around five percent of breast cancers and 15 percent of...

A family history of other cancers may increase your risk of developing colorectal or endometrial cancer. This page contains information about the familial risk of cancer and provides support options for families.

What is head and neck cancer? Head and neck cancer is a term for cancers that grow in the head...

What is liver cancer? Liver cancer is cancer that starts in the cells of the liver. In people with liver...

What is lung cancer? Lung cancer is a form of cancer that starts in the lungs. In Australia, more people...

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer. At affects the lymphatic system. The two main types are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This page includes information about lymphoma, including how your care may look and what supports you can access.

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. It develops in the skin cells and usually occurs on the parts of the body that have been overexposed to the sun. This page has information about melanoma and includes links to different supports for people who have this type of cancer.

What is myeloma? Myeloma is a type of blood cancer. It affects the plasma cells in the bone marrow. It...

What is ovarian cancer? Ovarian cancer is cancer that begins in the ovaries. In people with this type of cancer,...

Screening for breast cancer is your best chance for detecting breast cancer early. It involves having a screening two years from the age of 50 (or earlier if your GP advises it). This page includes information about what may happen during a breast screen and lists supports.

The cervical screening test is a simple test done every 5 years to check for human papillomavirus (HPV). This is a common infection that can lead to cervical cancer. This page includes information about cervical cancer screening and links to supports.

What is an anxiety disorder? An anxiety disorder is when we often feel very anxious. This can be anxious about...

What is a behavioural concern? Some children act differently to other children. Behaving differently isn’t always a problem. But, if...

What is a behavioural disorder? A behavioural disorder is when a child has difficulty with their emotions and behaviours. Their...

What is a compulsive disorder? A compulsive disorder is when a person has repeated unwanted thoughts or the need to...

What is a developmental concern? GPs use milestones to track your child’s development. Milestones are the skills and tasks children...

What is a behavioural concern? Some children act differently to other children. Behaving differently isn’t always a problem. But, if...

What is a developmental concern? GPs use milestones to track your child’s development. Milestones are the skills and tasks children...

What is juvenile idiopathic arthritis? Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a type of arthritis that develops in a child aged 16...

What is obstructive sleep apnoea in children? Obstructive sleep apnoea is when something partly or completely blocks the throat during...

What is a rash? A rash is a change in colour and texture of the skin. They can feel hot,...

What is weight gain in children? Weight management in children is about making long-term changes that support a healthy lifestyle....

What is a healthy diet? Diet is an important part of managing your diabetes. There is no one-size-fits-all diet for...

What is diabetes during pregnancy? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and are pregnant, you need special...

What is a diabetes eye screening? Diabetes is not just a disease that affects your blood sugar levels. High blood...

What is a diabetes foot screening? Diabetes is not just a disease that affects your blood sugar levels. High blood...

What is a diabetes kidney screening? High blood sugar levels can damage your kidneys. Undiagnosed kidney damage can lead to...

What are diabetes medications? If you have type 2 diabetes, you may need medication to help manage your blood sugar...

What is gestational diabetes? Diabetes develops if the body can’t make enough insulin. Insulin helps the body to absorb sugar...

What is hypoglycaemia? Hypoglycaemia is low blood sugar and it’s one of the most common problems related to diabetes. Taking...

What is pre-diabetes? After you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose, a type of sugar. A hormone called...

What is pre-pregnancy planning? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and can become pregnant, it is important...

What is type 1 diabetes? Type 1 diabetes is when your pancreas is unable to make insulin. Insulin is a...

What is type 2 diabetes? Diabetes develops if the body can’t make enough insulin. After you eat, your body breaks...

Benefits of exercise It can sometimes seem too hard to exercise, with time, money, tiredness and other factors getting in...

How can I maintain my health behaviours? Sometimes getting the motivation to change our lifestyle is easy but actually making...

What is a condition related to obesity? Obesity can affect a person’s overall health and wellbeing. People with a body...

What is planning to lose weight? Being overweight or obese can have an impact on your health, but even small...

What is quitting smoking? Smoking is the greatest cause of preventable illness and death in Australia. Around two-thirds of long-term...

Alcohol is a legal drug sold in Australia for anyone over the ages of 18. Excessive alcohol use can lead to health issues and social problems. This page includes information about alcohol and the health risks and side effects and has support options.

Cannabis, also called marijuana, is an illegal drug. Heavy use could lead to harmful health outcomes. This page includes information on how to reduce harm and has supports for you and your loved ones on how to control your cannabis use.

Medicinal cannabis can be used to relieve the symptoms of some conditions. Your GP can recommend it if they think it is right for you. This page has information about medicinal cannabis, including things you need to know if it is prescribed to you.

Methamphetamine, also known as 'crystal meth' or 'ice,' is a stimulant. It is illegal. This page has information about methamphetamine and includes links to different supports for people who want to stop taking this illegal drug.

Opioids can be prescribed to you or bought illegally. An opioid is a potent pain reliever and can cause people to become addicted and overdose. This page has information about opioids and shows where you can get support for your addiction.

What is obstructive sleep apnoea? Obstructive sleep apnoea is when something partly or completely blocks the throat during sleep. This...

Advance care planning involves making decisions about the care you would want to receive if you become unable to speak for yourself. It is an important step at any age to ensure your wishes are respected. This page includes information about planning the care you want.

End-stage respiratory disease happens when lung disease progresses to its final stages. Managing symptoms and providing appropriate care can help improve the quality of life for patients. This page includes information about managing this disease and getting support.

Managing the final stages of dying involves careful planning. It is important for the patient and their loved ones. This page has information about managing the final stages of dying and where you can find support.

Palliative care is the type of care aimed at providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a life-limiting illness. It focuses on improving the quality of life for both the patient and their family. This page has information and where you can find support.

Managing pain is a significant aspect of palliative care. Effective pain relief strategies are essential for comfort and quality of life. This page offers information about pain relief and where you can get support.

Caring for someone with a life-limiting illness can be challenging but also fulfilling. It’s important for carers to manage their own health and well-being to provide the best care possible. This page is designed to help you get the support you need.

Sleep issues are common for those near the end of life. This is caused by various factors including pain, anxiety, and medication. Addressing sleep disturbances is crucial for maintaining quality of life. This page has information and where to get support.

Voluntary assisted dying (VAD) allows a person to request medical assistance to end their life. It is a legal option in NSW under certain circumstances, providing patients with a choice in their end-of-life care. This page has information about VAD and where to get support.

What is a diabetes eye screening? Diabetes is not just a disease that affects your blood sugar levels. High blood...

What is a vitamin B12 deficiency? Vitamin B12 deficiency means you don’t have enough vitamin B12 in your body. Our...

What is chest pain? Chest pain can feel like a dull ache, a sharp stab, or a crushing or burning...

What is heart failure? Heart failure is when your heart can’t pump enough blood to the rest of your body....

What is immunisation? Immunisation is the process of getting a vaccine against a serious disease. Vaccines work by producing an...

What is immunisation and pregnancy? Getting certain vaccines before, during and after pregnancy protects you and your baby. Vaccines for...

What is an influenza immunisation? The influenza (flu) vaccine protects against the flu. The vaccine helps reduce the risk of...

What is an ankle fracture? An ankle fracture is a broken ankle. Fractures can be thin cracks or complete breaks...

What is ankle sprain? An ankle sprain is an ankle injury caused by rolling, twisting or straining the ankle. An...

What is a burn? A burn occurs when skin is injured by heat. Common causes of burns include hot or...

What is a clavicle fracture? A clavicle fracture is a break in the collar bone. Your collar bone is one...

What is a hand fracture? A hand fracture is a break in a bone in the hand (metacarpal fracture) or...

What is a cut (laceration)? A laceration is a deep cut to the skin or flesh. In some cases, your...

What is prepatellar bursitis? Prepatellar bursitis is a type of knee injury that occurs when the bursa, in the front...

What is a scaphoid fracture? A scaphoid fracture is a break in one of the bones in your wrist. They...

What is shoulder dislocation and instability? A shoulder dislocation is when the upper arm bone comes out of the shoulder...

What is acute kidney injury? Acute kidney injury is a form of kidney damage that occurs quickly, over a few...

What is blood in urine (haematuria)? Blood in urine (Haematuria) is when there is blood in the urine. It can...

What is chronic kidney disease? Your kidneys filter the blood in your body, removing waste products that can harm your...

What is a diabetes kidney screening? High blood sugar levels can damage your kidneys. Undiagnosed kidney damage can lead to...

What is a kidney infection (pyelonephritis)? Kidney infections happen when bacteria enters your body via the urethra (the tube you...

What is proteinuria? Proteinuria is the medical name for protein in the urine. There is usually a small amount of...

What is fatty liver disease? Healthy livers have very little or no fat in them. But if you drink too...

What is hepatitis B? Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver. The virus is spread through body fluids...

What is hepatitis C? Hepatitis C is a virus that affects your liver. It is spread by direct blood contact...

What is breathlessness? Breathlessness is shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing. It can happen for a number of reasons, including:...

What is COPD? COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, describes a range of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, non-reversible...

End-stage respiratory disease happens when lung disease progresses to its final stages. Managing symptoms and providing appropriate care can help improve the quality of life for patients. This page includes information about managing this disease and getting support.

What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is a serious lung infection caused by a bacteria or virus. It can affect one or...

What is carpal tunnel syndrome? Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a pinched nerve in your wrist. The pinched nerve...

What is dupuytren’s contracture? Dupuytren’s Contracture happens when the skin under your hand slowly thickens and gets tight. This can...

What is ganglia? Ganglia are small cysts, they are also known as ganglion cysts. They look like small bumps and...

What is a stroke? A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is blocked. There are two main...

What is a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)? A Transient Ischaemic Attack, also known as a TIA, is a minor stroke....

What is ADHD in children? Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common developmental disorder that affects how people behave. Children with...

What is autism in children? Autism spectrum disorder (autism for short) affects how someone thinks, feels, acts and behaves with...

What is dementia? Dementia causes a decline in brain function. It affects parts of the brain like memory, thinking, learning,...

What is it epilepsy in pregnancy? It is important to plan for a healthy pregnancy if you have epilepsy. Most...

What is mild cognitive impairment? Mild cognitive impairment is memory loss that is not a normal part of ageing. It...

What is a birhmark? An infantile haemangioma is the most common type of birthmark in babies. They often appear a...

What is back pain? Back pain is the term for pain felt in the spine or back. It can be...

What is chronic pain? Chronic pain is pain that lasts longer than expected. It usually occurs after an injury or...

What is an ingrown toenail? Ingrown toenails occur when your toenail grows into the skin of the toe. They are...

What is knee pain? Knee pain is pain you can feel in the knee joint or around the knee. Knee...

What is medication for acute pain? There are two main types of pain: acute and chronic. Acute pain starts suddenly...

What is shin pain? The shin bone (tibia) is the large bone at the front of the lower leg. Shin...

What is trigger finger? Trigger finger happens when your finger is hard to straighten after bending. You might notice a...

Anaemia means there is not enough red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen through the body. It is often caused by low iron levels and needs to be managed to ensure the health of both mother and baby. This page has information for pregnant women and supports.

What is antenatal screening? A fetal anomaly, sometimes called a birth defect, is when there is a change to part...

What is asthma during pregnancy? If you have asthma and are pregnant, your asthma control can change. Some women have...

What is a birth after caesarean section? For women who have had one or more caesarean sections in the past,...

What is bleeding in mid-late pregnancy? Mid-late pregnancy is any time from 20 weeks to full term. Bleeding can happen...

What is bleeding in rhesus negative women? The four major blood types are A, B, AB and O. Each of...

What will my healthcare team do to help my cope with my pregnancy loss? Your healthcare team can answer many...

What is diabetes during pregnancy? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and are pregnant, you need special...

What is it epilepsy in pregnancy? It is important to plan for a healthy pregnancy if you have epilepsy. Most...

What is it factor V leiden? Factor V Leiden is a gene mutation. It can increase your chance of developing...

What is fetal movements? Fetal movements is a term that refers to the baby’s movements in the womb during pregnancy....

What is gestational diabetes? Diabetes develops if the body can’t make enough insulin. Insulin helps the body to absorb sugar...

What is hypertension in pregnancy and pre-eclampsia? Hypertension in pregnancy and pre-eclampsia are health concerns that can affect pregnant women...

What is immunisation and pregnancy? Getting certain vaccines before, during and after pregnancy protects you and your baby. Vaccines for...

What is medical termination? A medical termination uses medication to end a pregnancy. It is safe and effective for pregnancies...

What is miscarriage? A miscarriage is a pregnancy loss that occurs within the fi­rst 20 weeks. This is usually confirmed...

What is obesity in pregnancy? It is normal to gain weight during pregnancy. However, being overweight or obese before pregnancy,...

It is important you have a say in your pregnancy care. In South Western Sydney, there are a few types...

It is common for women to have some form of tear during a vaginal birth. A tear...

What is planning to have a baby? If you’re planning to have a baby, it’s important to see your GP...

What is pre-pregnancy planning? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and can become pregnant, it is important...

What is thyroid disease in pregnancy? Your thyroid gland is located in your neck, near the base of your throat....

What is an unintended pregnancy? An unintended pregnancy is a pregnancy that is not planned. A chance pregnancy brings up...

What is a dilatation and curettage? A Dilatation and Curettage (D&C) is an operation performed on women to scrape away...

What is iron therapy? Iron therapy is when you get iron injected into your vein through an intravenous (IV) infusion....

What is medical termination? A medical termination uses medication to end a pregnancy. It is safe and effective for pregnancies...

What is a surgical termination of pregnancy? Surgical termination of pregnancy is a safe day-surgery procedure. It can be performed...

What is acute pelvic pain? Acute pelvic pain is soreness that’s felt in your lower stomach area. The pain may...

What is chlamydia? Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection. It’s caused by bacteria. You get chlamydia by having unprotected...

What is contact tracing? You’ve just found out you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI). There’s a lot going through...

What is epididymo-orchitis? Epididymo-orchitis is the painful swelling of the testes and the tubes attached to each testicle. It is...

What is genital warts? Genital warts, or Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), is a sexually transmitted infection caused by strains of...

What is gonorrhoea? Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. Common symptoms include genital discharge, pain when urinating...

What is herpes? Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. As many as one...

What is HIV exposure? People can become exposed to HIV in several ways. This may be from unprotected sex, sharing...

What is HIV? Living with HIV is the term used to describe people who are HIV-positive. Over the last three...

What is permanent contraception? Permanent contraception stops a person from being able to reproduce. There is an option for people...

What is pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)? Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication that greatly reduces the risk of getting HIV. PrEP...

What is sexual health screening? Sexual health screening is testing for one or more sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You might...

What is syphilis? Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection. It’s a bacterial infection that spreads by having unprotected sex or...

What is urethral discharge in males? Urethral discharge is when fluid leaks from the tube that carries urine and semen...

What is acne? Acne is a condition causing spots and painful bumps on the skin, also known as pimples. Acne...

What is cellulitis? Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection. The infected area may be swollen, red, hot and tender. Common...

What is a corn or callus? Corns and calluses are patches of thick, hard skin. They usually form on feet...

What is eczema? Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is dry and irritated skin. Eczema often appears on the face, neck,...

What is hives (urticaria)? Hives (urticaria) is a type of itchy skin rash. The raised bumps (wheals) appear when skin...

What is pruritus? Pruritus is the medical word for itchy skin. There are many reasons why your skin can itch....

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a type of skin condition causing red, scaly patches and flaking. It often affects the...

What is a rash? A rash is a change in colour and texture of the skin. They can feel hot,...

Pregnancy can cause changes to happen to your skin. There are a number of skin conditions a woman can develop during pregnancy. This page has information about this and where you can find support.

What are warts/verrucas? Warts and plantar warts (verrucas) are small, hard lumps on the skin. They are caused by a...

What happens after a loved one has died? After a loved one has died, your GP may sign a certificate...

What is heatstroke? Heatstroke happens when your body gets too hot. It is more common in summer due to the...

What is a heatwave? A heatwave is when there are more than three days in a row with a temperature...

Caring for someone with a life-limiting illness can be challenging but also fulfilling. It’s important for carers to manage their own health and well-being to provide the best care possible. This page is designed to help you get the support you need.

What is an oral glucose tolerance test? An oral glucose tolerance test, or OGTT, is a test that looks at...

What is a skin biopsy? A skin biopsy is a quick and simple procedure that removes a small sample of...

What is dialysis? Your kidneys filter the blood in your body. They remove waste products that could harm your vital...

Vaginal discharge is a fluid that comes out of your vagina. It is normally clear or white....

What is a long-acting contraceptive? Long-acting contraceptives are birth-control devices that stay in your body for a long time (from...

What is medical termination? A medical termination uses medication to end a pregnancy. It is safe and effective for pregnancies...

What is an ovarian mass? Ovarian masses (cysts) are fluid-filled sacs that appear in the ovary. The most common types...

What is pelvic inflammatory disease? Pelvic inflammatory disease is a bacterial infection of your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. This...

What is pre-pregnancy planning? If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and can become pregnant, it is important...

What is a short-acting contraceptive? Short-acting contraceptives prevent pregnancies but are either single use or only last for a short...

What is a burn? A burn occurs when skin is injured by heat. Common causes of burns include hot or...

What is a leg ulcer? A leg ulcer is a wound on the leg or ankle. The wound is usually...