Look after your mind and body this Self Care Week

Monday, 13 November 2023

A man pictured from the shoulders up smiling at the camera
A man pictured from the shoulders up smiling at the camera

Healthcare professionals across Cheshire and Merseyside are encouraging people to look after their ‘mind and body’ as part of Self Care Week 2023 (13-19 November).

Incorporating self care into our everyday lives can help us all live as healthily as possible - with evidence suggesting it can also help us to cope better with any challenges that come our way.

Just some ways to self-care are:

  • Understanding how best to manage seasonal and long-term health conditions
  • Adopting positive lifestyle choices, such as a good diet and regular exercise to support your general wellbeing and help maximise your immunity
  • Supporting your mental wellbeing by adhering to Mind’s Five Ways to Wellbeing
  • Taking a vitamin D supplement

Dr Jonathan Griffiths, Associate Medical Director for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said:

Information:

“This Self Care Week we are encouraging you to look after your mind and body. It’s never too late to make small, simple changes that will improve your health. Even small changes can make a big difference to your wellbeing.

“For instance, choosing to walk to work, walk the dog for longer or using the stairs instead of taking the lift are all simple ways to make positive lifestyle changes.

“We are also reminding all those who are eligible to come forward for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations to protect both yourself and those around you.”

Knowing what to do and where to go for help is an important part of practising self care for life.

Your local pharmacy can offer advice on a wide range of ailments and can also signpost you to the right place for additional health advice or treatment – if needed.

Alternatively, NHS 111 can tell you:

  • Where to get help for your symptoms
  • How to find general health information and advice
  • Where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine
  • How to get a repeat prescription
  • How to get an emergency dental appointment

Simply go to 111.nhs.uk, call 111, or use the NHS 111 app.

If it’s more urgent, information about when to call 999 and when to go to A&E is available via the national NHS website.