High-quality health information can have a huge impact upon our ability to stay healthy, manage illnesses effectively, and achieve a better quality of life.
We all need information that we can trust, particularly in this time of coronavirus.
Trusted sources
One of the easiest ways to get reliable health information is to use trusted sources. There is lots of information available, particularly online, but it can be hard to verify information which has been shared on a social media site.
Below are some sources of trusted health information:
- Your local library
- nhs.uk
- Established charities or health organisations
- patient info
- Materials provided by your GP or another healthcare professional
- NHS Apps Library
- Members of the Patient Information Forum (PIF)
What to ask
There are a few simple questions you can ask yourself when looking at health information:
- Where did the information come from?Who produced it? Was it the NHS or a trusted charity or health organisation? Is the information relevant to the UK?
- How current is the information? When was it published or last updated? Health information changes over time – make sure it is up to date.
- Is it easy to use and understand?
- Is it based on multiple evidence reviews or case studies? Look for clear references.
- Why has it been produced?Is it to inform or is there an agenda? Is the website profit driven?
- It is also a good idea to cross-check information. This means looking to see if it is repeated by more than one reliable source.
Physical and mental wellbeing
There are a number of very important ways that you can ensure good physical and mental wellbeing, these are just a few:
Healthy eating
Eating well has many benefits, it can help you keep a healthy weight, and will reduce the possibility of type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol plus many others.
Drinking plenty of water.
The body is made up of around 60% of water and it is essential to drink water to keep your body working correctly.
Getting exercise
Regular exercise will keep you fit and also helps with your mental health. When you exercise your body releases endorphins to make you feel good.
Getting a good night’s sleep
Sleep plays an important role in your physical health. For example, sleep is involved in healing and repair of your heart and blood vessels.
Relaxation
Relaxation reduces stress and the symptoms of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety and schizophrenia – llisten to some music or read a book – BSMHFT library holds all of the Reading Well for Mental Health collection as well as Mood Boosting Books and a collection of other fiction titles. You can view our collection here: www.base-library.nhs.uk
Information adapted from: https://healthinfoweek.wixsite.com/healthinfoweek
