“Cozzie Livs”: Nurturing wellbeing amid cost of living challenges.

The cost of living, or “cozzie livs” as it’s called in 2024, presents challenges that go beyond financial strain, particularly when it comes to accessing essential needs like healthcare and medications. As we strive to balance life amidst the rising cost of living, the impacts of tightening purse strings can impact on your healthcare. So let’s have a look at how we can navigate some of these impacts on our health and wellbeing. 

Navigating Access to Healthcare Services

1. Communication with Healthcare Professionals: Prioritise open communication with healthcare professionals, including GPs, Nurse Practitioners, Psychiatrists, or other specialists, and Allied Health clinicians. Discussing financial challenges can lead to tailored solutions, ensuring continued access to necessary healthcare services. 
2. Exploring Assistance Programs: Investigate potential programs offered by healthcare providers or government initiatives. There are programs available in our local area to help access healthcare services if you are under financial strain. 
3. Telehealth Options: Explore Telehealth options for medical consultations. Many healthcare professionals offer virtual appointments, providing a convenient and potentially cost-effective alternative for consultations. 

Navigating Medication Costs

1. Communication with Pharmacists: Engage with pharmacists as essential healthcare allies. Discuss financial constraints openly, and seek their guidance to explore cost-effective medication options, potential discounts, or available assistance programs.                                                                                       

Wellbeing Tips for Tighter Budgets: 

1. Back to Nature: Amidst financial constraints, getting out in nature offers a cost-free escape. Moments in botanical gardens or by the beach provide much needed respite, contributing to overall wellbeing without straining the budget. 
2. Community Gatherings: Finding solace in community becomes increasingly important as purse strings tighten. Attend local gatherings for the joy of shared experiences and the support these connections provide during financially challenging times. 
3. Mindful Moments: In times of financial strain, cultivating mindfulness becomes a powerful tool. Practices like yoga and sensory activation offer stress relief without any associated costs, enabling individuals to maintain mental wellbeing even when budgets are tight.
4. Library Resources: The library, a haven of knowledge and community, becomes even more valuable when budgets are constrained. Attend workshops, book clubs, and community events to stay engaged without compromising financial stability. 
5. Volunteer Opportunities: As financial constraints impact personal budgets, volunteering becomes an avenue for contributing to the community without any financial burden. It provides purpose, connection, and a sense of fulfilment during challenging times. 

And lastly, please contact the CARE4MH team if you need mental health and wellbeing support. We always keep a couple of appointments available for new clients who need to speak with a mental health professional.