The NHS in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire is urging local people to take simple, proactive steps to look after their physical and mental wellbeing this Self-Care Week (17–23 November).
Self-care is about making small changes that can have a big impact on your health, from eating well and staying active to getting enough sleep and seeking support when needed. Local NHS leaders are reminding residents that self-care is not about going it alone but about knowing how to help yourself and when to seek help.
Dr Husain Mawji, Clinical Director for Nottingham, said: “Self-care is a lifelong habit, not just a one-off. By making small, positive changes – like eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and talking about how you feel – you can boost your energy, mood, and overall health.
“Our local pharmacies are also here to help with minor illnesses and can offer advice and treatment without the need for a GP appointment. We want everyone in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to feel empowered to take control of their health, and to know where to turn for support when they need it.”
People are encouraged to:
- Eat well and move more: We all know that a balanced diet and regular exercise can boost our energy, mood, and immunity, but with the best will in the world, it’s often easier said than done! Start where you are: are there a few changes you could make to your diet? Could you get off the bus at an earlier stop or park slightly further away than usual? A daily short walk round the block? If you would like to lose weight, drink less alcohol, get active or quit smoking, there is local support available. Find out more on our website.
- Prioritise sleep: Quality sleep each night really helps our bodies and minds to with getting a good sleep. Here’s some helpful sleep tips from the NHS website. recharge. Aiming for 7-9 hours a night is the ideal, but many people struggle
- Talk about how you feel: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Reach out to friends, family, or professionals if you’re struggling. The NottAlone website has useful information for children and adults about both self-care for various mental health problems, but also where to you can get help from.
- Visit your local pharmacy: Your local pharmacy can often provide help with less urgent conditions and may be able to offer treatment and some prescription medicine without you needing to see a GP. Through the Pharmacy First scheme, they can help with conditions including earache, shingles, sinusitis, sore throat, urinary tract infections in women, impetigo and infected insect bites.
- Access self-care resources: Visit the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire self-care webpage for tips, leaflets, and guidance on managing long-term conditions and staying well during winter.
- Support children’s health: For mums, dads and carers, you can explore our Children’s Health and Wellbeing pages. Here you’ll find both trusted advice on common childhood illnesses and when it’s important to seek treatment for you baby or child. You’ll find information on many common childhood infections and conditions This covers conditions such as chickenpox, asthma, earache, scarlet fever and many more.
Self-care is not about doing everything yourself – it’s about knowing how to help yourself and when to seek help. With this in mind, we’ve created a range of resources to help you take care of yourself and your family which you can find here on our self-care webpage.
Let’s use this week to build healthier habits, support one another, and make wellbeing a priority.
