Healthy citizens, healthy communities.

Don’t be downhearted; a few actions make a big difference.

In my experience, healthy citizens are one aspect of community and business development that is often overlooked by the people involved. Health problems and frustrations are a concern for health professionals. They become reactive, not proactive, in smaller towns and villages as they become overworked. The solution lies in having the business and non-profit organisations work together. Increasing collaboration can solve both health, social, and business problems experienced by all.

Chronic disease is one of the most significant health problems facing communities and, indeed, the world. Building healthy communities is a continuum that includes physical, mental, and social well-being; it is not just about the absence of disease. Participation in social and community life benefits an individual’s overall health, well-being, and survival.

Yes, there is much stress on businesses and non-profits in our regional, rural, and remote communities. The question is, are healthy people who build healthy businesses, or do healthy businesses build healthy people? Community leaders should address the health of the citizens as an essential way of helping the community prosper while meeting aspirations.

Healthy citizens can avoid chronic diseases.

Never ignore health issues in planning and building healthy communities. Explore how the various community activities impact the potential for people to contract chronic diseases, both positively and negatively.

These health problems plague every community and have required care for many years. Yet many can be controlled and even prevented with proper health management programs. Every regional, rural and remote community can reduce the risks of ill health.

Healthy citizens minimise the impact of health issues.

You can resolve concerns about future difficulties with an ongoing support program and change the conversations in the community.

People should continue to receive regular checkups for their health, as this will assist them on their journey to recovery and ultimate success. Any program should be set up with the belief that many problems and concerns can be resolved. This can be achieved by taking corrective action quicker and seeking objectivity and perspective from external facilitators. The cure is always preferable to the disease.

Many people take a quick fix and move on, not realising that much more could have been done and was available to them. Well, I have seen them return, and the repair costs next time. There is always a next time, which costs far more than maintaining a support program.

Healthy citizens are involved in health programs.

What should a support program consist of for your community and businesses? Identify services that will be required. What can an ongoing support structure achieve?

Ongoing support will be essential to avoid slipping into the old ways that caused the problems. Repairing any psychological damage people may have suffered should be an integral part of any recovery program.

Medication is something we all have to take. We cannot avoid taking the lousy medicine if we expect to win. Everyone seems to pave the road to success with good intentions. It is essential to ensure that people have access to a support group. They tell me I have less risk of getting another bout of cancer than someone who has not had any, which is why I have regular checkups.

If you are relying on your understanding of health issues, you are putting yourself, your business and your community at risk and inviting trouble.

Quotable Quotes

“I know and understand the price you pay for success. Ambition, hard work and an unremitting devotion to achieving your aspirations are great. But, most of all, is it worth the risk to your health and well-being? Peter Sergeant

“Prepare for every game like you just lost your last game”. Lon Kruger