WHILE interest in health and fitness is booming like never before, advances in medical science, the expanding health and care services plus a tendency to expect the welfare state to deal with more and more social and welfare issues has led many people to neglect their own care.

However, last week’s national awareness Self Care Week is fitting reminder that each individual has a responsibility for their own health and the overall theme for the week this year was Self-Care for Life.

Worcestershire County Council, which deals with local health and well-being issues, has taken the opportunity to reinforce the message that there are many things people can do to take more control of their own health.

Councillor Marcus Hart, cabinet member with responsibility for health and well-being, said: “Self Care Week is an important reminder that we all have a responsibility for our own health.

“People with long term conditions often have more complex health needs than others. However, with the support of healthcare professionals, they can plan their care to help manage their condition and prevent unnecessary visits to hospital.

“Self-care isn’t just for those that are older or ill. If you’re a parent or carer you still have a really important role to play.

“Making sure you and your loved ones are looking after themselves, taking medication as prescribed if needed, eating well, taking exercise and seeing others is really important for mental and physical health and wellbeing."

Self Care Week, a campaign run by Self Care Forum, aimed to encourage everyone to be actively involved in improving their own health and well-being, especially those with long term conditions such as diabetes or chronic respiratory problems.

Dr Martin McShane, NHS England’s National Medical Director for Long Term Conditions, said: “By supporting people to help themselves, we can not only improve quality of life for individuals but also use NHS services even more effectively, particularly with winter approaching when we all know our A&E services and GPs face huge demands,” he said.

“Helping people to help themselves is a two-way partnership between individuals and the NHS to provide information, tools, support and care to allow people to stay well and use health services appropriately.”

People think they need to visit a GP or hospital with minor illnesses and injuries, but they are often better treated more quickly elsewhere, or at home using simple remedies, according to the county council.

Local pharmacists can offer free, qualified health advice, at any time and no appointment is necessary. From coughs and colds to aches and pains, they can give expert help on everyday illnesses and answer questions about prescribed and over the counter medicines.

All year round, pharmacists can also advise in confidence on healthy eating, obesity and giving up smoking.

If people need help out of hours they call NHS111 by simply dialling 111, which goes straight through to the NHS.