This page lists the translated health and wellbeing resources by topic. To look in more detail, click on a relevant topic.
- Allergies occur when our body overreacts to a 'trigger' or allergen. Common reactions include itchiness, sneezing and difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that requires emergency treatment. Common allergies include hay fever, asthma, hives and food allergy.
Allied - The allied health sector represents a broad range of health professionals who are not doctors, dentists, nurses or midwives.
Alternative - Alternative therapies are used in place of conventional medicines or treatments. There is no scientific or medical evidence for some complementary therapies and many alternative therapies, and they may be unsafe or cause harmful side effects.
- Anxiety is extreme worry that interferes with our daily lives. Symptoms include panic attacks, dissociation, physical fear reactions and attempts to avoid the situation. Anxiety disorders can lead to social isolation and depression but help is available.
- Arthritis occurs when joints or muscles become painful, stiff and swollen. Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, ankylosing spondylitis and fibromyalgia. Exercise, medication and supportive therapies can help manage symptoms.
- Asthma is a serious respiratory condition that causes difficulty breathing and can cause death. Recognise your asthma triggers and manage the condition with medication, relievers and preventers (puffers), exercise and other therapies.
Australian health - Australia’s health system is a complex mix of service providers and other health professionals from a range of organisations. Australia’s health system is underpinned by Medicare – a universal health insurance scheme. Medicare pays rebates for medical services and procedures provided by private practitioners in the community such as GPs and other medical practitioners, and Medicare ensures Australians have access to free hospital services for public patients in public hospitals and a range of prescription pharmaceuticals subsidised under the PBS.
Blood and blood - Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to the cells of our body and helps us fight infection. Veins, arteries and capillaries are blood vessels that combine with the heart to make up the circulatory system. See a doctor to check for health conditions such as orthostatic hypotension, low and high blood pressure.
Bones muscles and - Bones, muscles and joints hold our body together and support freedom of movement. They are part of the musculoskeletal system (also known as the locomotor system). Fractures, back pain and muscle strain, are common conditions.
- The bowel is a tube-like organ that is part of the digestive system. The small bowel absorbs the nutrients from the food you eat and the remaining waste forms faeces. The large bowel absorbs liquid back into the body, leaving solid waste. Stomach pain or abdominal pain can be a sign of bowel issues such as diverticulitis or IBS.
Brain and - The brain, nerves and spinal cord form part of the nervous system. Nerve cells and chemicals called neurotransmitters help different parts of the body communicate. Tumours, seizures, motor neuron disease, headaches and brain disorders can affect the brain.
- Carers play a critical role in Victoria’s health system. Thousands of Victorians take on paid and unpaid caring roles at different times in their lives. There is financial and service support available to carers in Victoria.
- Access translated resources from Centrelink, which provides security payments and services to Australians.
Children and family - There are family support services available to help parents raise their children. Creating a safe and nurturing environment for our children is a priority and can sometimes meet challenges.
Children's - In the first five years of life, a child’s brain and body develop more quickly than at any other time. When babies are young, their learning and development mostly happen within the family at home. Parents of school age children can provide guidance and support, protect their child's safety and look after their health. Good nutrition, physical activity, sleep and immunisation are all important.
Chronic - A chronic or long-term illness means having to adjust to the demands of the illness and the therapy used to treat the condition. There may be additional stresses since chronic illness might change the way you live, see yourself and relate to others.
- There are many contraceptive methods available in Australia, including implants, intrauterine devices (IUDs, both copper and hormonal), injections, pills, vaginal rings, barrier methods (male and female condoms and diaphragms), female and male sterilisation, emergency contraception and natural methods (natural family planning).
- Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without needing any medical assistance. Some people can still get very sick even if they are fit and healthy. Access translated information on COVID-19 vaccination, COVID medication such as evusheld, COVID testing and how to be COVID-safe.
- Depression is a mental illness that may be mild or severe. Types include major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, dysthymic and cyclothymic disorders, postnatal depression and seasonal affective disorder.
- Diabetes occurs when blood glucose (sugar) levels are raised due to problems producing or processing insulin. Diabetes may be genetic, pregnancy related or caused by obesity or illness and may be type 1 or type 2.
Digestive - The digestive system turns food into nutrients that are absorbed by the body and removes waste. The mouth, oesophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum and anus are involved.
- Accessing disability services in Victoria can be dependent on your location as well as your particular needs. Learn about the kinds of support that are available for managing disability. Understand the rights of people with a disability and their carers and find information about support groups as well as useful information for managing your healthcare.
- Discrimination happens when a person, or a group of people, is treated less favourably than another person or group because of their background or certain personal characteristics.
Diseases and - Access translated health information on a range of diseases and conditions.
- Illegal drugs such as marijuana (cannabis), heroin, GHB, ketamine, ice, protonitazene, ecstasy and cocaine can have a serious effect on our physical and mental health. Treatment and support are available.
Ear nose and - The ear, nose and throat are part of the upper respiratory tract. They help us breathe, smell, hear, keep our balance, swallow and speak. Infections and conditions of the sinus, tonsils and adenoids affect these organs, such as tonsillitis, vertigo and BPPV.
Early - A quality early learning centre and nurturing home environment is the perfect combination for your child to develop their full potential. It will also help prepare them for school.
Eating - An eating disorder is a serious mental health condition that involves an unhealthy preoccupation with eating, exercise or body shape. Anyone can develop an eating disorder, regardless of cultural background, gender or age.
- Information in your language about primary, secondary and tertiary education.
- Emergencies can be medical or family violence emergencies, natural disasters (such as floods, bushfires or heatwaves), communicable diseases (such as pandemic influenza) or a chemical, biological and radioactive emergency. Learn about different types of emergencies and the support services that exist to help you if you are in an emergency situation in Victoria. In an emergency, call triple zero (000).
- Work and careers can be rewarding but workplace demands, conflict, injury, retirement, losing a job or trouble finding work can cause problems. Learn how to handle job-related stress, understand legal rights and obligations at work, deal with harassment and stay safe at work.
Environmental - Our environment includes hazards that may affect our health. Smoke, chemicals, toxic minerals, viruses and other materials can impact on the quality of our air, food and water supply. The changing climate and natural disasters also have consequences for our health, wellbeing and safety.
- Our eyes allow us to see. The optic nerve carries images from the retina to the brain. Other eye parts include the cornea, iris, pupil, lens and sclera. Damage can cause vision loss or blindness.
Family - Family violence (also called domestic violence) is the use of violence, threats, force or intimidation to control or manipulate a family member, partner, former partner or other person the perpetrator has a relationship with. Acts of family violence include not only assault and physical injury but also sexual assault, threats (direct and indirect), controlling access to money, damaging property, social isolation, emotional and psychological torment and any behaviour which causes a person to live in fear. A person’s age, gender, sexual identity, cultural background, ability, religion, wealth, status or even location doesn’t matter – anyone can be affected by family violence.
- Many things can cause foot pain and injury. The repetitive way in which our feet and legs move is very important. Podiatrists assess abnormalities in foot and leg movement – as well as techniques, surfaces and footwear – when diagnosing causes and prescribing treatments for foot and leg pain.
First - First aid can treat simple injuries or it may mean the difference between life and death in an emergency. Cuts, bites, stings, bleeding, choking, frostbite, heat stroke, hypothermia and burns may respond to first aid.
Food and - Eating a variety of healthy foods is the key to a well-balanced diet and good nutrition. It keeps our bodies working well and helps prevent diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Food safety - Access translated information on food hygiene and safety standards placed on Australian food businesses.
Genes and - Your genes are inherited and contain information that our cells use to control growth, development and health. Genetic changes disrupt these messages and can cause health problems. These may be present at birth or may appear later in life.
Grief loss and - Grief is your response to loss, particularly in relation to the death of a loved one. Grief can affect your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, beliefs, physical health and relationships with others. Many people experience feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, fear and numbness.
Health - Health practitioners or health professionals have certain obligations. Learn about the role of health professionals in managing and treating your health.
- Heart disease occurs when your arteries become clogged with fatty material. You can lower your risk of having a heart attack by making simple lifestyle choices such as avoiding high-cholesterol foods. Check your blood pressure or get an ECG test to detect different heart conditions.
- Information in your language on heat exhaustion, fire safety and how extreme heat can impact your body.
- Hepatitis means inflammation (swelling and pain) of the liver. The liver is important for a range of functions in the body. These include regulating metabolism, making proteins, storing vitamins and iron, removing toxins and producing bile.
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that can weaken the immune system to the point that it is unable to fight off some infections. HIV is not the same thing as AIDS. AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection when the immune system is at its weakest and a person has one or more specific illnesses. AIDS is now very rare in Australia, as HIV treatments are highly effective at preventing the virus from multiplying and thereby protecting the immune system from the virus.
- If you need surgery or other medical procedures, you are likely to attend a clinic or hospital in Victoria. This information will take you through the preparation for a stay in hospital, provide advice about managing your stay through to recovery and discharge. Practical information about paperwork, costs and payments is also available here.
- Translated information for current public housing renters, potential social housing renters and anyone wanting to know about housing in Victoria.
- One of the most effective ways we have to protect ourselves and others from illness is good personal hygiene. This means washing your hands, especially, but also your body. It means being careful not to cough or sneeze on others, cleaning things that you touch if you are unwell.
- Infections are generally caused by bacteria or viruses. These can be spread in blood, body fluids, contaminated food and airborne droplets or by animals and insects. Some infections can be prevented by immunisation.
Interpreting and - Access translated information about using interpreting and translation services and working with interpreters.
- A range of support services are available specifically for LGBTI Victorians that require them. Find information in your language about sexuality and gender.
- The lungs are part of our respiratory system. Along with the trachea, alveoli, bronchi and diaphragm, they help us breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. Lungs can be affected by infection or allergy or may puncture or collapse. Visit a respiratory clinic to detect any respiratory issues.
- Medications include prescription, over-the-counter and complementary or herbal treatments designed to help keep us well. Incorrect use of medicines can cause side effects, overdose and other reactions. Make sure you take your medicines correctly.
Men's - The male reproductive system is involved in sexuality and fertility. It includes the penis, testicles, epididymis, vas deferens and prostate gland. These body parts have a role in semen production and ejaculation.
Mental - Mental health relates to the cognitive, social and emotional wellbeing of individuals, and their families, carers and supporters. Good mental health is a state of overall wellbeing which includes social and emotional wellbeing, not just the absence of mental health challenges. Achieving and maintaining wellbeing is an ongoing process, which may include recovery from specific mental health challenges, and which can change over a person’s life.
Migrants and - Information in your language for newly arrived migrants navigating the Australian system. Information on cultural safety for newly arrived migrants.
Online - Information in your language on avoiding scams, technological abuse and safe use of the internet.
Oral - The mouth is made up of the lips, tongue, jaw, teeth and gums. Our mouth plays a key role in the digestive system and are important for speech. Keeping your teeth, gums and mouth clean and healthy can prevent disease and infection.
Organ and tissue - Translated information on donating organs and tissue.
Other - Other health and human service related information.
Palliative - Palliative care and end of life services help improve your quality of life if you have a life-limiting illness and provide support to your family and carers. End of life and palliative care services include help with daily tasks and access to a range of emotional, spiritual and mental health care options to suit your needs. Services also provide information and advice about death and dying, advance care planning, financial planning and many other issues that can arise at the end of life.
- Whatever the age of your child, parenting requires lifelong skills. Good communication is the key to a good relationship with the children in your life. Being a parent is a joyful and rewarding experience but it can be challenging. Your child's needs change as they get older. Knowing what to expect can make parenting less stressful.
Patient's - As a patient in hospital, you have the right to receive high-quality and safe care. You and your carers should expect clear communication about medical issues and treatment options in a way that you can understand.
Physical - Physical activity and fitness protect our health and can be fun. Walking, playing sport, swimming, running, cycling and gardening can all keep you fit. Stay safe and prevent injury during exercise by following some sensible tips.
Pregnancy and post-natal - Translated information for pregnant or new parents. Pregnancy is a different experience for everyone. Learn what to expect during your pregnancy including how to care for yourself and your baby.
- The skin protects our body against injury and infection, regulates temperature and controls the loss of body fluids. Its two main layers are the dermis and epidermis. Skin can be affected by sun, ageing, injury and infection such as boils, chilblains, acne and rashes.
- Sleep is important for the health of our body and mind. Sleep deprivation can cause exhaustion, fatigue, poor concentration, dissociation and mood changes. Common disorders include sleepwalking, restlessness, hypersomnia, snoring, insomnia and sleep apnoea.
- Tobacco causes more preventable illness and death than any other drug. Smoking causes a range of cancers as well as heart disease, stroke and emphysema. Treatment and support to quit smoking are available.
- Sexually transmissible infections (STIs) are common. Anyone who has sex can get an STI – even if you practise safe sex most of the time. Not all STIs have obvious symptoms, so you may not know you have one. Most STIs can be treated. If untreated, they can have serious effects on your health. Get an STI test at least once a year - usually with a simple blood test or urine sample. Condoms are the best protection.
- Stress is a process, not a diagnosis. We experience stress when there is an imbalance between the demands being made on us and our resources to cope with those demands.
- Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked. Stroke can affect adults and children. Signs of stroke include dizziness, numbness and loss of vision. Early treatment can help manage the effects of a stroke.
- Someone who is thinking about suicide will usually give some clues or signs to people around them, though these may be subtle. Everyone is different and there is no definitive way to predict how someone will act, but suicide prevention starts with recognising the warning signs and taking them seriously.
- Surgery is an operation to investigate or treat a disease or injury. Ask your surgeon to explain what you can expect and any risks involved. Take time to understand the information when deciding about surgery such as a laparotomy or key hole surgery.
Tobacco - The Tobacco Amendment Act 2016 has amended the Tobacco Act 1987 to ban smoking in outdoor dining areas and regulate e-cigarettes and shisha tobacco in the same way as other tobacco products.
- Plan and prepare to get the most out of your holiday. Get good medical advice, get immunised if you need to, and do what you can ahead of time to protect your health and safety while travelling. Information in your language about travel and car safety.
- Tuberculosis, commonly known as TB, is an infectious disease caused by infection with the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium. Typically TB affects the lungs but it can also infect any other organ of the body.
Voluntary Assisted - Voluntary assisted dying means a person in the late stages of advanced disease can take a medication prescribed by a doctor that will bring about their death at the time they choose. Only people who meet all the conditions and follow the process set out in the law can access voluntary assisted dying medication.
- How we think and feel can affect our emotional, mental and physical health. Learning to manage our anger, change our outlook on life or address psychological issues can help keep our minds active and healthy.
Women's - The female reproductive system is involved in sexuality and fertility. It includes the vagina, womb (uterus), fallopian tubes and ovaries. Menstrual periods, ovulation, pregnancy, birth and menopause are part of the reproductive cycle.