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Photo of Damien Liddell competing in a Natural Physique Competition.

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Health to me means the ability to function at an optimal level in both mind, body and spirit so that I can fulfil my daily life to the fullest; being free of stress, illness and disease. To ensure I stay healthy I make sure I follow the recommendations set by the Physical activity and exercise guidelines for all Australians for my age group.

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Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds

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Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds

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As a future Healthcare professional, I will strive to apply Competency Standard 12. Competency standard 12 articulates the level of commitment required by Clinicians to demonstrate cultural acceptance, introspection and impartiality (Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice: Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds, 2019). I will apply the aforementioned standard to my nursing practice by drawing upon my own experiences having worked with migrants and refugees in my previous careers in the Military and Law Enforcement, as I understand the level of compassion that is required to care for these people. I will continue to exercise and uphold the ethical standards that are expected of our profession whilst displaying empathy, compassion, respect and unbiased opinions and views. I will be an advocate for cultural awareness and cultural development amongst my peers to promote equality, safety, dignity and effective communication, and implore them to immerse themselves in other cultures to gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the complexities and diversities when caring for people from other cultures and backgrounds, whilst reflecting on their own.

Carroll, K. (2021). Miguel, 13, Helena, Michael and Angelo, 11, De Jesus [Online]. In The Canberra Times. https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7100330/this-is-my-home-20-new-australian-citizens-in-canberra/

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Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice: Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds. (2019, January). Cultural and Diversity Health; Migrant & Refugee Health Partnership. https://culturaldiversityhealth.org.au/competency-standards-framework/

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There are a number of social determinants that can impact migrants and refugees, these can include Social Inclusion and non-discrimination, Unemployment and job insecurity and Housing (World Health Organization, 2023).

According to Ziersch et al. (2020) social inclusion and non-discrimination are important factors in the social determinants of health in migrants and refugees. Language barriers can negatively impact on a person's ability to interact, assimilate with others and engage in the community, resulting in social isolation and discrimination which also prohibits their ability to access basic services and build meaningful connections.

Unemployment and job insecurity is another key Social determinant in the health of migrants and refugees (World Health Organization, 2023).

Ziersch et al. (2020) determines that challenges with having overseas education qualifications accepted can result in a lack of employment opportunities for migrants and refugees, requiring them to undertake work in undesired and less-paid jobs such as cleaning and meat processing. Financial implications as a result of unemployment, low or no income and job insecurity can lead to mental health issues such as stress and depression (Ziersch et al., 2020).

Housing is another crucial social determinant that can impact migrants and refugees (World Health Organization, 2023).

A home provides safety, shelter, security and privacy which provides solace to a person's mental and physical well-being (Due et al., 2020). A lack of suitable housing, affordability and cultural awareness can have negative consequences which can lead to adverse physical and mental health according to Due et al. (2020). In accord with research (Due et al., 2020) it can be determined that Refugees are often marginalised and oppressed due to past traumatic experiences that lead to ill health, both mentally and physically. Positive health outcomes such as housing build social networks (Due et al., 2020).

Due, C., Ziersch, A., Walsh, M., & Duivesteyn, E. (2020). Housing and health for people with refugee- and asylum-seeking backgrounds: a photovoice study in Australia . Housing Studies, 37(9), 1–27. https://doi.org/10.1080/02673037.2020.1857347

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WHO. (2022, July 20). WHO report shows poorer health outcomes for many vulnerable refugees and migrants. www.who.int. https://www.who.int/news/item/20-07-2022-who-report-shows-poorer-health-outcomes-for-many-vulnerable-refugees-and-migrants

World Health Organization. (2023). World Health Organization. Who.int; World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/

Ziersch, A., Miller, E., Baak, M., & Mwanri, L. (2020). Integration and social determinants of health and wellbeing for people from refugee backgrounds resettled in a rural town in South Australia: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09724-z

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Video footage taken by Damien Liddell at the Rugby League State of Origin game.

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Sport plays an integral role in Australia and is synonymous with all Australians. Not only does it enhance our mental and physical well-being but also fortifies our culture, relationships and social connections (About Sport in Australia, 2023). Sport is a massive part of my culture as I have been brought up with the expectation of playing and being involved with Sport.

About sport in Australia. (2023, September 22). Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. https://www.health.gov.au/topics/sport/about-sport-in-australia

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Homemade Scones using Pumpkins from our Local Farmers Market. Photo taken by Damien Liddell.

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Pumpkin Scones are a common savoury snack that is easily made with minimal and staple ingredients that can normally be found in the pantry and fridge. The Pumpkin is sourced from a local farmers market. I utilise a healthier version of the recipe to make sure I adhere to the recommendations set by the Australian Dietary Guidelines. In my culture, Scones are eaten for either morning or afternoon tea and are best served on their own with coffee.
Enjoy the recipe below which I have tweaked a little -
https://www.cookitrealgood.com/healthy-pumpkin-scones/

Cassie. (2018, December 17). Healthy Pumpkin Scones Recipe. Cook It Real Good. https://www.cookitrealgood.com/healthy-pumpkin-scones/

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(Flag of Iraq in front of a clear blue sky, 2017)

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The country I’ve chosen to explore the principal health issues that refugees may present with upon immigrating to Australia is Iraq.

According to Department of Home Affairs (2021), Iraq is listed as the second top country of Humanitarian entrants into Australia in 2021-2022.

Iraq has a well-documented history of war including The Gulf War, The Iraq War, multiple terrorist group insurgencies and Sectarian violence which has resulted in the displacement of thousands of people seeking asylum (Council of Foreign Relations, 2021).

According to the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (2023) and Australian Refugee Health, Primary Care for People of Refugee Backgrounds (2023), three common health concerns that a refugee from Iraq is likely to present with upon arrival in Australia are Malaria, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB).

Malaria is a disease affecting humans that is contracted from mosquitoes which can be deadly (World Health Organization, 2023). One treatment option for Malaria is treated orally with Artemisinin-based combination therapy (Australian Refugee Health, Primary Care for People of Refugee Backgrounds, 2023).

The second common health concern for a refuge arriving in Australia is HIV.

HIV is a virus that alters the immune system which increasingly damages good cells that normally fight disease and keep us healthy (Health Direct, 2018)

Treatment options for HIV are Anti-retroviral therapies (Australian Refugee Health, Primary Care for People of Refugee Backgrounds, 2023).

Lastly, the third common health concern for refugees arriving into Australia from Iraq is TB.

TB is infectious which is caused by bacteria that impacts the lungs (World Health Organization, 2023).

Treatment option for TB is Isoniazid (Australian Refugee Health, Primary Care for People of Refugee Backgrounds, 2023).

Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. (2023, June 2). Iraq. www.smartraveller.gov.au; Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/middle-east/iraq

Australian Refugee Health, Primary Care for People of Refugee Backgrounds. (2023). Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide. https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/

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Council on Foreign Relations. (2021). The Iraq War. Council on Foreign Relations; Council on Foreign Relations. https://www.cfr.org/timeline/iraq-war

Department of Home Affairs. (2021, July 12). Country Profiles List. www.homeaffairs.gov.au; Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/research-and-statistics/statistics/country-profiles/profiles

Flag of Iraq in front of a clear blue sky. (2017, May 11). IStock. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/flag-of-iraq-gm682424212-125140879?phrase=Iraq

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‌Health Direct. (2018). Healthdirect Australia. Healthdirect.gov.au; Healthdirect Australia. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/

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‌World Health Organization. (2023). World Health Organization. Who.int; World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/

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Video taken by Damien Liddell of the local Perth band "Birds of Tokyo" in concert at the Perth Concert Hall.

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Music has always played an important role in my culture. From having to march to a beat and sound of a Military Band at work to listening and enjoying classic Australian artists such as Jimmy Barnes, AC/DC, INXS and Silver Chair during  family gatherings, BBQ's and playing backyard cricket. According to Kubicek (2022), music may assist during medical treatments for particular health conditions and  increase our well-being and mood.

Kubicek, L. (2022, July 25). Can music improve our health and quality of life? Harvard Health; Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-music-improve-our-health-and-quality-of-life-202207252786

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Photo taken by Damien Liddell of a beach in Albany.

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With Australia having a coastline of more than 36000 kilometres, the beach is symbolic and synonymous with the Australian way of life offering enjoyment, freedom and amusement (National Museum Australia, 2022). According to Bondfield (2019) Australia's beach culture has been widely documented on film and sound and in literature and art; due to its unrivalled lingo, traditions and history. Recent studies have shown the association of people taking part in social and recreational beach activities such as walking, swimming, fishing and surfing has a positive affect on a persons mental and physical health and wellbeing as they offer happiness and fulfilment (Wiesel et al., 2022). Additionally, the beaches sound, senses and environment possess rehabilitation elements which can positively influence a persons wellbeing whilst also foster family and social relationships and inclusion (Wiesel et al., 2022). My family and I visit the beach regularly and part of our family tradition and culture is to head to the Beach on Christmas Day morning to spend time together.

c. (2022, November 18). National Museum of Australia - Discovering the beach. www.nma.gov.au. https://www.nma.gov.au/exhibitions/between-the-flags/discovering-beach

Mel.Bondfield. (2019, December 20). Australians at the beach | NFSA. nfsa.gov.au. https://www.nfsa.gov.au/collection/curated/australians-beach

Wiesel, I., Weerts, S., & Lewis, M. (2022). Sun, Sand and Surf: Benefits, Elements and Pathways to Accessible Beaches. The University Of Melbourne.

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Photo taken with my best mate and colleague.

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Mateship plays a significant part in my culture especially coming from a Military and Law Enforcement background, as mates are deemed closer than family. Mateship is a quintessential part of the Australian culture which is entrenched in Australian society and beliefs according to Carlin et al. (2021). The Oxford Dictionary defines Mateship as "Companionship or friendship, especially between men". According to Strong Relationships, Strong Health - Better Health Channel (2022)‌, the strength of relationships can impact your mental and physical health. Solid, trustworthy and respectful relationships have proven health benefits which include increased immunity and self-esteem whilst lowering anxiety and depression levels (Strong Relationships, Strong Health - Better Health Channel, 2022)‌.

Carlin, N., Laugesen, A., & Jones, B. (2021, October 25). Mateship might sound blokey, but our research shows women value it more. UNSW Newsroom; University of New South Wales. https://newsroom.unsw.edu.au/news/social-affairs/mateship-might-sound-blokey-our-research-shows-women-value-it-more

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Strong relationships, strong health - Better Health Channel. (2022, February 24). www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au; Department of Health, State Government of Victoria. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Strong-relationships-strong-health#health-benefits-of-strong-relationships

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Personal photo of my dog 'Monty' with his paw on my leg.

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Animals and humans have cohabited the earth for thousands of years and during that time have forged strong bonds with each other (Nicoletti, 2017). Australia is renown for their love of animals, specifically dogs with 48% of the population owning a dog (Hannink, 2020). Dogs specifically have always been a part of my family's culture and as long as I can remember I have always owned a dog and so have my family and friends. Dogs have played a significant role throughout my life and have always served as a companion with an unbreakable connection. Dogs are intuitive to our feelings and actions according to Nicoletti (2017).  According to Wells (2019), studies have shown that pets can help reduce a number of health conditions such as Cardiovascular disease, stress and depression.

Hannink, N. (2020, November 18). Pets and Australian’s: Who has what? Pursuit; The University of Melbourne. https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/hilda-pets-and-australians-who-has-what

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Nicoletti, J. (2017, April 13). Top 10 heroic animal stories in Australia. Australian Geographic. https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/history-culture/2017/04/top-10-heroic-animal-stories/

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Wells, D. (2019). The State of Research on Human-Animal Relations: Implications for Human Health. Human-Animal Interaction and Healthy Human Ageing, 32(2), 169–181. https://doi.org/10.1080/08927936.2019.1569902

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