Being well isn’t just about being physically healthy and free from illness, it’s also how you feel about yourself and your life as a whole.
People often have a greater sense of well-being when they have strong social networks, suitable housing, they are in employment and/or education (if they wish to be) and they are healthy, both physically and emotionally.
It’s your right to make decisions about your own life, including where you live, what support you receive, etc. If you think no-one is listening to you, you can ask for help to get your views across.
Being well includes looking after your physical health: eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, drinking lots of fluids, using alcohol in moderation and giving up smoking.
Attend regular health checks, including dental check-ups and eye tests. See your GP whenever you have health concerns; diabetes and high blood pressure are common but treatable and more serious health problems are easier to treat if diagnosed early. If you are caring for someone, let your GP know.
Take medication regularly as prescribed. Prescriptions cost nothing in Wales and many pharmacies will deliver prescribed medication to your doorstep free of charge.
Exercise is a great mood booster so aim to stay as active as your health and circumstances allow. Being active doesn’t necessarily mean doing lots of vigorous exercise. Walk a little everyday – with a mobility aid if you need one– and stretch your joints regularly to keep them moving.
Swimming places less stress on your joints than weight-bearing exercise like running and aerobics. If you are aged 60 or over, take advantage of the free swimming sessions at your local swimming pool at your local swimming pool (availability will vary).
Stay in touch with family and friends. Pick up the phone and make that call. Everyone feels low at times, but if you’re feeling particularly lonely tell someone how you are feeling.
If you are struggling with normal daily activities, it might be time to ask for support from social services.
Information and support
Activate your life is a free online course designed to help you improve your mental health and well-being. There are four videos focusing on different elements of well-being.
The five ways to well-being are a well-being equivalent of ‘five fruit and vegetables a day’. It is recommended that individuals build the five ways into their daily lives to improve their well-being.