The first national Self Care Awareness Week takes place from 9 to 15 November 2009 and aims to raise awareness of the information and support available to help people, and especially those with long term conditions take control of their own health and wellbeing.
Self Care covers every aspect of living a healthy life, from brushing our teeth to looking after ourselves when recovering from illness. People with long term conditions are already doing this well but some are still unaware of the choice of support and information available to help manage their condition. For instance, everyone with a long term condition can have a personalised care plan, access to courses and support groups as well as knowing about the right equipment to help live healthy and stay independent.
If you are living with a health condition, or just want to learn how to look after yourself better, ask your healthcare professional for information on the advice and support available or visit the self care pages on the NHS Choices website.