Why Self-Care Week Matters
The NHS is under increasing pressure, with rising flu admissions and the challenges of the winter season. Practising self-care helps reduce demand on healthcare services while improving our own health and wellbeing.
Self-care has two key strands:
Knowing when to self-manage and when to seek professional medical support.
Healthy habits to reduce the risk of illness.
Latest Research
Research from the Self-Care Academic Research Unit (SCARU) at Imperial College London highlights:
The findings underline the importance of supporting individuals with knowledge and confidence to manage their health.
A disconnect between health professionals and the public:
Professionals often underestimate patient engagement.
The public shows a strong desire to take control of their own health.
Low health literacy remains a barrier, preventing many from practising effective self-care.
Mind & Body: This Year’s Theme
The 2025 theme is Mind & Body, encouraging us to balance physical and mental wellbeing. Here are practical steps we can all take:
- Take vitamin D supplements – especially important for those shielding or spending little time outdoors.
- Eat a healthy diet – boosting immunity through balanced nutrition.
- Exercise regularly – supporting general wellbeing and resilience.
- Adopt positive lifestyle choices – such as reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoking.
- Maintain friendships – social connections are vital for good mental health.
Learn to manage minor and long-term conditions – understanding when self-care is enough and when to seek medical help
Everyday Self-Care: A Lifelong Practice
Incorporating self-care habits into daily life helps us stay as healthy as possible and evidence shows that being healthier improves our ability to cope with life’s challenges.
Self-Care Week is a reminder that looking after our mind and body is essential, especially during the winter months. By practising self-care, we not only improve our own wellbeing but also help ease the strain on the NHS.
This November, let’s commit to making self-care a daily habit — because healthier individuals mean stronger families, communities, and a more resilient healthcare system.
For tips on how to practice self-care visit: https://bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth/self-care-week/
You might also like to read about Trustee Week at SIL
