What is Self Care?
Having a long term health condition that alters your life can be difficult to accept. However, self care or understanding and managing your condition, can lead to an improved quality of life.
Long term conditions can include diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease or any long term condition. Self care of these conditions may help you communicate better with healthcare staff, reduce the number of visits to your GP and improve your confidence and reduce anxiety.
Self care can include keeping fit and healthy, knowing how to take medicines, treating minor ailments, attending support groups and medical seeking help when necessary.
Self help groups
There are a wide range of self help groups in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin that offer a range of services and support for conditions. Details of these can be found on the Community Directory.
Self care courses
There are also courses provided by a range of providers to help you manage your condition. These courses can provide you with a range of skills to help make you feel more confident and less anxious, such as dealing with pain and tiredness, coping with feelings of depression, relaxation and exercise, and planning for the future.
Details of some of the providers are available on the Community Directory. Alternatively, your GP should have the details of a course suitable for you or be able to refer you to a relevant provider.