Take steps this Self Care Week to help you stay well

Published: 14 November 2022

Join us this Self Care Week (14-20 November) to boost your wellbeing and stay well in the long term.

This year’s theme is to exercise self-care for life - a chance to better understand what you can do now to positively impact your physical health, mental well-being and self-esteem forever. We’re here to help you achieve your goals, whatever your circumstances.   

We have a wealth of info to get you on your way to better self-care. Have a look at our stay well pages for a host of tips on how you can build physical activity into your daily routine and how to keep a healthy weight, alongside local organisations who can support you. There’s lots of other advice too, like how to stop smoking and cut down on alcohol. By making small changes you take control of your general well-being and maximising your immunity.  

Taking care of your mental wellbeing is just as much of a priority as your physical health. The NHS Every Mind Matters campaign has lots of information, advice and practical tips on improving your health and wellbeing, such as how to sleep better and manage stress. You can also find local support on our website

There are also things we can do to care for ourselves when we’re feeling under the weather. Make sure you know how to deal with everyday illnesses like colds and stomach bugs. Keep your medicines cupboard stocked up and if you become unwell, get plenty of rest and keep drinking fluids. Painkillers such as paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin can help relieve symptoms of cold or flu, although do always first check the instructions for each medicine. You can help others stay well by staying home if you are feeling poorly and visiting vulnerable friends and families when you are feeling better. 

If you have a long-term condition, there may be ways you can find out how to live well with it on a daily basis. Taking care of your physical and mental health may help you manage your symptoms. Make sure you’ve also had a conversation with a health professional about a self-care plan and take steps to follow it. 

For health advice on anything else, think about asking your pharmacist. Pharmacists are experts in the use of medicines, managing minor illnesses and providing health and wellbeing advice. Find out what your pharmacy can do for you.  

Take control this Self Care Week by recognising when you can self-care and when you need to seek advice. We’ll also be sharing bitesize bits of advice on our social media channels across the week and all throughout winter, so be sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook and help spread the word.