Thrive Health - Allied Health, Wellness, Lactation, NDIS

18/11/2025

18/11/2025

“Breastfeeding rates in Scotland are at the highest level since official records began in 2002, Public Health Scotland (PHS) data shows.

In the 12 months to March 2025, more than half of newborn babies were being breastfed at the time of their 6-8 week review (34% exclusively and 17% a mixture of formula and breastfeeding), while 49% were formula fed only.

Breastfeeding is medically proven to support the short and long-term health of babies and young children, as well as for mothers.

The Scottish government said it had provided an additional £11m over the past seven years towards breastfeeding support.

Figures show that over the past decade the proportion of babies receiving some breastfeeding increased at both the first visit (61% in 2024/25, compared with 48% in 2014/15) and 6-8 week reviews (51% in 2024/25 compared with 38% in 2014/15).”

BBC - full article link in comments 😊

18/11/2025

17/11/2025

Any other 80s babies remember creating their very own Picture Plate?

This masterpiece was created by our Admin Jess way back in 1988 - and like her, it's practically an antique now 😱

Picture Plate have now updated their range to include calendars, drink bottles, mugs and totes, but you can't go wrong with the classic melamine plate.

The children at Thrive Health have been busy drawing their artworks, ready to be turned into treasured keepsakes.

If you'd like more information on how your child can create their own Picture Plate, please email us at admin@thrivehealth.au 🎨👩‍🎨👨‍🎨

14/11/2025

14/11/2025

🌿 We’re Hiring! 🌿

📍 Coffs Harbour / Nambucca Valley ~ Allied Health Assistant / Occupational Therapist / Speech Therapist (Casual)

Thrive Health is looking for passionate, flexible, and motivated team members to join our multidisciplinary practice.

✨ Support & deliver therapy for paediatric NDIS participants
✨ Engage kids through play, art & holistic approaches
✨ Mentorship, coaching & growth opportunities
✨ Casual role with potential to grow hours
✨ Above award pay (Award 0027 + additional based on experience & skill)

📍 Port Macquarie / Wauchope ~ Allied Health Assistant / Support Worker (Casual)

Thrive Health is looking for a caring, flexible, and motivated team member to join our multidisciplinary practice.

✨ Support therapists & NDIS participants
✨ Engage kids through play, art & holistic approaches
✨ Mentorship, coaching & growth opportunities
✨ Casual role with potential to grow hours
✨ Above award pay (Award 0027 + additional based on experience & skill)

💌 Apply now – send your CV & cover letter to admin@thrivehealth.au

04/11/2025

04/11/2025

04/11/2025

Did you know that exercises targeting the muscles of the tongue and throat can improve stability of the airway and help prevent airway collapse during sleep?

Myofunctional therapy is a well supported intervention to help reduce snoring obstructive sleep apnoea in both children and adults, especially in conjunction with CPAP, surgery, or orthodontic treatments.

Here is a pioneering study from Brazil that examines the impact of specific exercises. The researchers used a camera down the nose and throat to see the impact on mobility, tone, and dimensions of various regions in the throat. This work contributes much needed understanding of how the exercises work, and provides insights into selection of exercises to improve outcomes.

A big congratulations to speech and language colleague Esther Bianchini and her team for their dedication to advancing this field and improving outcomes for so many! 👏

Here’s the link to the research:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ocr.12912

04/11/2025

Missed Diagnoses and the Emotional Impact of Late Autism Identification

For many autistic women, diagnosis comes late in life, often after years of wondering why everyday life feels so effortful. Some recognise themselves only after their child’s diagnosis or through stories that reflect their own. What begins as curiosity can quickly turn into a powerful realisation, this might be me.

Many first seek help for depression or anxiety. It is often a mental health professional who notices lifelong social or sensory patterns and raises the possibility of autism. Early signs are commonly missed, especially when girls mask their differences or are viewed through gendered expectations of being caring, quiet, or sensitive.

The cost of being unseen can be heavy. Years of trying to fit in may lead to exhaustion, perfectionism, and persistent self-doubt. When difficulties finally emerge, they are often misinterpreted as mood or anxiety disorders rather than signs of unmet neurodevelopmental needs. Studies link delayed identification with greater risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation (Lupindo et al., 2022; Lilley et al., 2021).

For many, receiving a diagnosis brings both relief and grief. It reframes the past, offering language and self-understanding where confusion once stood. Recognising autism earlier, especially in girls and women, is not only about accuracy. It is about protecting wellbeing and ensuring that no one spends a lifetime feeling unseen.

Reference: Lupindo et al., 2022; Lilley et al., 2021.

📚Learn more!
Want to learn more about the unique strengths, challenges, and lived experiences of autistic women?

Join the webcast Autistic Women webcast on 7 November 2025 - An afternoon session, 1:30 pm – 4:45 pm AEST to explore the experiences, strengths, and mental health of autistic women across adulthood.
🔗 https://www.attwoodandgarnettevents.com/products/webcast-autistic-women-7th-november-2025

In the morning, we are hosting our Autistic Girls from 9:30 am – 12:45 pm AEST, Brisbane time.
🔗 https://www.attwoodandgarnettevents.com/products/webcast-autistic-girls-7th-november-2025