Health Information
When we are going through a particularly difficult time, we can often neglect our physical and mental health. However it is important to seek medical help via your GP surgery if you need it. If you are able to be open with your doctor or health professional, it can help you to receive the most effective treatment and support. Remember all NHS services are confidential.
Mental Health
Staying mentally healthy isn’t just about treating illness – far from it! There are lots of things we can do to help prevent ourselves getting ill in the first place, for example:
- talking about our feelings
- keeping active
- eating well
- drinking sensibly
- keeping in touch with friends and loved ones
- getting professional help
Sexual Health
Sexual wellbeing is not just about the absence of disease or unintended pregnancy, but encompasses the positive aspects of relationships and sexuality.
You can get information on sexual health from your GP surgery, health visitor or a sexual health clinic. You can make an appointment at your nearest clinic by calling the NHS Sexual Health Department on 01294 323228.
Who Can You Speak To?
You could speak to your GP or contact an organisation with trained counsellors who can help you:
How You May Have Coped?
Sometimes you can try to cope using other methods, such as self-medication. Although you may feel better in the short-term, it can damage your health for the long-term.
For any of the reasons below, you can get information from www.nhs24.com or support from your GP:
- If you are worried about whether you are drinking too much, or want more information on how to cut back, try the online alcohol screening and advice system: www.downyourdrink.org.uk
- For information or advice and support on drinking, whether it’s your own or someone close to you, call Ayrshire Council on Alcohol: 01292 281 238
- If you are disturbed by someone else’s drinking you can speak to someone who understands. For details of an Al-Anon meeting near you call: 0141 339 8884www.al-anonuk.org.uk
- If you are concerned about drug misuse or for local and national services that can provide counselling and treatment Talk to Frank: 0800 77 66 00 www.talktofrank.com
- For information and support on eating disorders www.b-eat.co.uk or
www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mentalhealthinformation/mentalhealthproblems/eatingdisorders/eatingdisorders.aspx - For information on self harm
http://www.mind.org.uk