Keeping healthy

Drinking guidelines

Drinking too much alcohol has a damaging effect on bones. It can also affect your balance which may increase your risk of a trip or fall. Alcohol can:

• interfere with prescribed medications, causing some drugs to be exaggerated such as diazepam (Valium) and reducing the effectiveness of some others – for example tablets to reduce high blood pressure
• cause thinning of the bones, which can occur with heavy drinking
• increase unsteadiness and risk of having a fall
• disturb sleep patterns
• impact on co-ordination and memory, leading to falls and general confusion
• lower your mood

It is best to stay within low-risk drinking guidelines. Until recently, women and men had different guidelines, but now this is no longer the case.

For under 65s the guidance is to consume no more than 2 to 3 units per day (a maximum of 14 units per week, with at least 2 alcohol free days per week). For over 65s this is 1 to 1.5 units per day.

If you think you need some advice on how to cut down your drinking, check out the resources below. Or you can speak to your GP or contact your local alcohol support service if you need further support.

Alcohol units calculator

• NHS inform has lots of information on drinking sensibly, knowing your limits and getting help and support when you need it.
• You can check out this drinks calculator to find out just how many alcohol units and calories are in your favourite drink.

Healthy eating is important

Eating healthily is important for your overall health and wellbeing, but it can also help to prevent falls. Eating regular, nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids can help to avoid problems that can contribute to a fall, including:

• lightheadedness
• dehydration
• tiredness
• depression

As we get older our appetite can often decrease. If you find it difficult to eat regularly, eat smaller meals and include nutritious snacks as well. If this continues to be a problem for you, ask your GP if a referral to a dietitian would be helpful.

What can I do?

• Eat a varied and balanced diet (see the eatwell plate below)
• Eat regularly, and don’t skip meals
• Keep hydrated by drinking water regularly
• Keep to the recommended safe levels for drinking alcohol

 

Eating healthily

The eatwell plate highlights the different types of food that make up your diet. It also shows the proportions of each food group that you should eat to have a well-balanced and healthy diet.

Spreading these proportions over a day will be easier than trying to include something from each food group in every meal. Try to include a variety of foods in your diet.

Keeping hydrated

Keeping your fluid intake up throughout the day is also important as dehydration can cause low blood pressure, dizziness and confusion, leading to an increased risk of falls.

Try to drink at least 6 to 8 cups of fluid every day, including:

• water
• juice
• milky drinks
• tea and coffee

Further support

For more information on how to eat well, visit the NHS inform How to eat well section.

Healthy eating is important

Eating healthily is important for your overall health and wellbeing, but it can also help to prevent falls. Eating regular, nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids can help to avoid problems that can contribute to a fall, including:

• lightheadedness
• dehydration
• tiredness
• depression

As we get older our appetite can often decrease. If you find it difficult to eat regularly, eat smaller meals and include nutritious snacks as well. If this continues to be a problem for you, ask your GP if a referral to a dietitian would be helpful.

What can I do?

• Eat a varied and balanced diet (see the eatwell plate below)
• Eat regularly, and don’t skip meals
• Keep hydrated by drinking water regularly
• Keep to the recommended safe levels for drinking alcohol

 

Eating healthily

The eatwell plate highlights the different types of food that make up your diet. It also shows the proportions of each food group that you should eat to have a well-balanced and healthy diet.

Spreading these proportions over a day will be easier than trying to include something from each food group in every meal. Try to include a variety of foods in your diet.

Keeping hydrated

Keeping your fluid intake up throughout the day is also important as dehydration can cause low blood pressure, dizziness and confusion, leading to an increased risk of falls.

Try to drink at least 6 to 8 cups of fluid every day, including:

• water
• juice
• milky drinks
• tea and coffee

Further support

For more information on how to eat well, visit the NHS inform How to eat well section.

Healthy eating is important

Eating healthily is important for your overall health and wellbeing, but it can also help to prevent falls. Eating regular, nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids can help to avoid problems that can contribute to a fall, including:

• lightheadedness
• dehydration
• tiredness
• depression

As we get older our appetite can often decrease. If you find it difficult to eat regularly, eat smaller meals and include nutritious snacks as well. If this continues to be a problem for you, ask your GP if a referral to a dietitian would be helpful.

What can I do?

• Eat a varied and balanced diet (see the eatwell plate below)
• Eat regularly, and don’t skip meals
• Keep hydrated by drinking water regularly
• Keep to the recommended safe levels for drinking alcohol

 

Eating healthily

The eatwell plate highlights the different types of food that make up your diet. It also shows the proportions of each food group that you should eat to have a well-balanced and healthy diet.

Spreading these proportions over a day will be easier than trying to include something from each food group in every meal. Try to include a variety of foods in your diet.

Keeping hydrated

Keeping your fluid intake up throughout the day is also important as dehydration can cause low blood pressure, dizziness and confusion, leading to an increased risk of falls.

Try to drink at least 6 to 8 cups of fluid every day, including:

• water
• juice
• milky drinks
• tea and coffee

Further support

For more information on how to eat well, visit the NHS inform How to eat well section.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.

Positive mental wellbeing

Wellbeing can be thought of as a combination of our physical, mental and emotional health.

Being positive and happy about yourself and with your life is important for staying healthy and keeping active. However, sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive, particularly if things are making you feel anxious or stressed.

Fear of falling

Fear of falling can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. If you have become less active, your muscles can quickly become weaker – this can affect your balance and increase your risk of falls. As we age, worrying or a fear of falling can become a serious concern, affecting your confidence and stopping you from doing things you enjoy.

Learning to manage these feelings, and knowing what you can do to reduce the risk of falls, can help to improve your confidence and quality of life. There are various techniques you can use to calm the mind and reduce muscle tension caused by anxiety. If anxiety about falling continues to be a problem for you after trying these techniques, speak to your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist.

Feeling isolated or lonely

Everyone experiences loneliness from time to time. It comes in many forms. It often arises when you have little contact with people but it can also occur when you feel you have little importance or value in other people’s lives. Or when the people you are with see things very differently from you. You may also feel lonely or isolated, even if you live with or are surrounded by others – there is a difference being alone and feeling lonely.

If you feel lonely for a long time it can bring with it a deep and long-term feeling of thinking everything is useless and a sensation of separateness or isolation (thinking you are separate or different from everyone else).

Loneliness and depression seem to be very closely linked. Sometimes loneliness can be confused with depression. Depression can also bring about feelings of loneliness. Low self esteem and not feeling confident in social situations can also make you feel lonely. However, it is important to remember that it can also be healthy to spend time on your own and be alone – different people have different needs for company and for solitude.

What can I do to help?

Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. However, if your GP has diagnosed depression, it is important that you also continue with your prescribed treatment.

Life changes, such as getting a regular good night’s sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting regular exercise, can be effective in helping you feel healthier and more relaxed. This can often help people feel more in control and more able to cope.

Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently.

If you are diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including antidepressants and talking therapies.

Exercise helps

Exercise is a good way to deal with stress because it’s a healthy way to relieve your suppressed energy and tension. Exercise is known to release feel-good brain chemicals (endorphins). It also helps you get in better shape, which makes you feel better overall.

Remember to have a look at our Exercise Centre to find out what exercises are good for you.

Talk to others

If you feel overwhelmed with loneliness or depression seek help. You are not alone.

Further Support

The Silver Line 800 4 70 80 90 is the confidential, free helpline for older people open every day and night of the year. Specially trained helpline staff:

• offer information, friendship and advice
• link callers to local groups and services
• offer regular befriending calls
• protect and support those who are suffering abuse and neglect

If you need someone to talk to you can contact Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. If you’re feeling down or your thoughts and feelings seem overwhelming it can become difficult to cope with everyday life. Breathing Space is a specialist service you can talk to for free and in confidence. They will offer advice through active listening and can link you with other specialist help if required.

Living Life is a NHS 24 free telephone service available to anyone over the age of 16 who is suffering from low mood, mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety. You can call the free, confidential phone line on 0800 328 9655 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 9pm). You will be asked to provide some details and then an assessment appointment will be arranged to discuss the service and how help can be provided to you. (Note – some mobile phone operators may charge for calls so please ask if you are calling from a mobile and would like us to call you back).

NHS inform also provide a wide range of information on mental wellbeing.