Wellbeing | The Runway

Wellbeing is essential to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) as it directly impacts operational readiness, performance, and overall morale. When ADF personnel are physically fit, mentally resilient, and emotionally balanced, they can fulfil their duties effectively, make sound decisions, and enhance team dynamics. Prioritizing wellbeing creates a supportive environment, recognizes the sacrifices of personnel, and improves job satisfaction and retention. It also proactively addresses mental health challenges, reduces stress, and promotes psychological resilience among ADF members. By investing in the wellbeing of its personnel, the ADF ensures readiness, cohesion, and the overall success of military missions.

Negative facial expressions interfere with the perception of cause and effect

Negative facial expressions make it harder to judge cause and effect in social situations. They draw attention but drain mental resources—reducing accurate prediction; while positive expressions allow clearer pattern recognition.

Growing up near busy roads linked to higher risk of depression and anxiety

Long-term exposure to traffic noise during childhood and adolescence is linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety later, suggesting everyday environments can quietly shape mental health risk, especially through sleep disruption and chronic stress.

Fruits and vegetables preserve cognition in mice fed a Western-style diet

Adding enough fruits and vegetables helped protect memory in mice eating a high-fat diet, suggesting food quality can buffer the brain against obesity-related cognitive decline, even when weight gain is not fully prevented.

Extreme heat exposure is linked to higher prevalence of depression and anxiety

Extreme heat can lead to higher rates of anxiety and depression. The effects persist over time and hit vulnerable communities harder, signalling that heat is not just a comfort issue but a public health risk.

Why most of military life rarely makes the screen

Military movies tend to portray training and combat scenes but by-pass the routine, repetition and administrative work that defines daily service. The meaning of these mundane activities for personnel is built slowly through shared experience.

This company is rethinking PTSD treatment for veterans — with VR

The treatment works on blood flow and oxygen delivery supporting brain function. Instead of relying on traditional talk therapy or exposure-based models, virtual reality gameplay is used to regulate the brain’s blood flow under stress.

How a Marine lost over 100 pounds ahead of basic training enrolment

A man lost 100 pounds in weight in order to join the Marines. This is a story of intense motivation towards goals combined with healthy diet and strict exercise program, all surrounded by strong support.

Addiction is puzzling. Scientists are trying to understand why

Using Keith Richards as a case study, the article argues that addiction depends on personal values—not mere physical dependence—showing how drugs can enhance life for some, while harming others.

Walk while you work: Are the extra steps using an under-desk treadmill worth the cost?

Too much sitting, especially at work, is now recognised as a health risk. Studies reveal a treadmill desk or walking pad can have long-term benefits, such as fat loss, and lowered cholesterol and blood pressure.

Should you exercise during hot weather? Experts weigh in as southern states swelter

The ability to exercise safely in the heat is dependent on personal factors including age, health status, heat tolerance, and exercise intensity. Risk can be mitigated by assessing temperature, radiant heat, humidity and wind.