What is self-care?
Self-care refers to the actions we take to recognise, treat and manage our own health. It’s about doing small, everyday things for yourself to keep healthy and happy.
What are the benefits?
Self-care is good for you and for the NHS. There are lots of benefits to self-care. We believe it’s:
Quicker
No need to wait for a GP appointment. You can buy the medicines you need over the counter at your local pharmacy or supermarket and have them ready to use at home.
Easier
Many treatments can be bought without the need for a prescription at your local pharmacy or supermarket, often for much less than a prescription charge.
Simple
Advice and information about self-care is widely available online. You can also call into any pharmacy for advice on the best treatment for your minor illness.
Considerate
Self-care helps relieve pressures on GP practices, A&E and could potentially save the NHS around £136m every year. here’s how you can do your part in helping GPs:
Self Care – when to use your GPs vs when to use your Pharmacy – YouTube
Where can I go for advice?
There is lots of information now available to support self-care and to help manage minor illnesses. Here are our top suggestions:
The NHS Website
The NHS website is the UK’s biggest health website. It has lots of advice on illnesses and how to treat them. Visit www.nhs.uk
HANDi App
This free app offers help and advice for parents and carers looking after children with the common childhood illnesses. This can be downloaded via the app store on itunes and Google Play.
Your local Pharmacy
Pharmacies are a great community resource and can help support you and your family when you are feeling unwell.
You can seek advice on many common illnesses at your local pharmacy. Pharmacists and their teams are trained to offer health advice including which medications will help or treat your symptoms and advise you on when to see a doctor if needed. Items bought from the Pharmacy are usually cheaper than a prescription from your GP Practice.
Many pharmacies are also open late into the evening and over the weekends, allowing you to walk in and ask for advice at a time convenient for you and without the need for an appointment.
Self Care – Pharmacy Services – YouTube
(Self care » Joined Up Care Derbyshire)
Link for self-help guidance Self care » Joined Up Care Derbyshire
