Destigmatising health conversations with Paralympians

New research reveals over half of Australians (54%) admitted they have avoided addressing a health concern, despite four in five (82%) agreeing that opening up can support their health.

Bupa, is launching a national campaign encouraging Australians to have more open conversations about health.

The campaign is underpinned by Bupa’s research that shows over half of Australians (54%) have avoided addressing a health concern. Bupa’s findings also reveal that 68% of Australians who shared a health concern with someone other than a medical professional reported a positive impact on their mental wellbeing. These conversations also led to increased feelings of support (52%), connection (32%) and reduced isolation (34%)*.

Bupa Health Stories features six Australian Paralympians who have navigated complex health challenges to show how open conversations with others led to their improved mental wellbeing.

Katja Dedekind, a vision-impaired Paralympic Swimmer and one of the campaign ambassadors, shared how her experience with endometriosis was, at times, more difficult to manage than her vision impairment. Diagnosed at age 17, Katja’s decision to speak publicly about her endometriosis has led to an outpouring of gratitude from women across the country who felt seen in their own experiences.

Paralympic Archer, Taymon Kenton-Smith, lives with Gorlin Syndrome; a rare genetic condition that has seen him undergo the surgical removal of 68 skin cancers. Taymon hopes to encourage more Australians to speak up about their health concerns with people they trust and show that seeking support is not a weakness.

“A problem shared is a problem halved, and that applies even more so when it comes to our health. Talking about our health with someone we trust not only verbalises the challenge, but it also opens the path for us to access the support of others to find the right treatments to meet your needs. We know that many Australians hesitate to open up in fear of feeling shame or being a burden to others. But our research shows that sharing your experience with a friend, family or health practitioner is rarely a burden, in fact, it helps people feel supported and connected,” shared Andrea Christie-David, Director of Mental Health at Bupa.

“And it’s not just about having someone to talk to, representation matters too. When public figures and everyday Australians share their stories, it encourages others to do the same.”

Cameron Murray, CEO at Paralympics Australia, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to be part of this important campaign with Bupa. Not only are Australian Paralympians elite competitors, they’re also powerful storytellers, advocates and leaders.

“By sharing their personal health journeys, our Paralympians are demonstrating that vulnerability is a form of strength. These stories will inspire people far beyond the sporting world.”

The initiative forms part of Bupa’s ongoing commitment to improving physical, mental and emotional health outcomes for all Australians. Bupa wants all Australians to know that it’s healthy to talk about health.