VMHPAA Supports National Diabetes Week: A Holistic Approach to Prevention and Wellbeing
- Shane Warren
- Jul 13
- 2 min read
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
13 July 2025
National Diabetes Week (13–19 July) rightly spotlights prevention - an effort that "matters at every stage of the journey," from reducing Type 2 onset to preventing complications in Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.
As Australia collectively works toward a future where “diabetes does no harm,” the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association Australia (VMHPAA) affirms its belief: diabetes care cannot be siloed. Managing diabetes is not just about monitoring blood glucose or taking medications, it is also about emotional resilience, community support, and mental wellbeing.
“Living with diabetes touches every part of a person’s life - body and mind,” said Shane Warren, Chair of VMHPAA.“Vocationally trained counsellors and peer support specialists are critical in helping people manage stress, sustain motivation, and navigate lifestyle changes, because prevention is never purely physical.”
Mental health support plays an indispensable role across the entire diabetes journey. Small adjustments whether in diet, exercise, or stress can dramatically reduce risks. Diabetes Australia suggests, up to 58% of Type 2 diabetes cases are preventable with early action and lifestyle support.
Susan Sandy, VMHPAA Secretary and a seasoned relationship counsellor, states: “When someone is setting new patterns choosing healthier meals, exercising, or managing setbacks, they’re not just adjusting routines; they’re reshaping lives. Our practitioners are there every step so that those small wins lead to lasting change.”
VMHPAA also supports Diabetes Australia’s call for equitable access to digital technologies and essential healthcare services - tools that prevent medical emergencies and reduce long-term complications are essential for prevention methods to work.
“Prevention is a journey that requires practical, emotional, and social support,” said Shane Warren, Chair, VMHPAA.“By valuing vocationally trained mental health practitioners as part of national diabetes strategy, we can enhance outcomes, reduce burden, and build healthier futures.”
VMHPAA Urges:
Integrating mental health practitioners into diabetes care teams from diagnosis onward
Investing in community-based peer support and vocational counselling tailored to individual needs
Supporting the call for subsidised diabetes technologies such as CGMs and pumps, so mental and physical care can work from a place of stability
Media Contact:
Shane Warren, Chair
Susan Sandy, Secretary
VMHPAA
It’s great to see VMHPAA backing National Diabetes Week and shining a light on prevention and wellbeing. A holistic approach really makes a difference when it comes to managing health in the long run. Many people don’t realise how much lifestyle changes can support both physical and mental health. I’ve even come across folks who improved their balance and wellness after seeking bppv disease treatment, which shows how connected everything is. Initiatives like this are a step in the right direction for a healthier community.