To be healthy or not to be healthy, in most instances the choice is ours.  One of the biggest contributing factors to our overall health and wellbeing is our lifestyle.  We can choose to live our lives healthily, if we wish, and by getting enough sleep, eating a sensible and balanced diet, keeping active and taking regular exercise, we contribute to good health.  However, by smoking, taking illegal substances, or drinking alcohol we could be doing harm to our health either temporarily or sometimes permanently.

On this page you will find links to helplines and websites providing information, advice and guidance, on a wide range of related topics which contribute to how we can keep ourselves healthy, or for those who feel they need help and support to get them back on track.

Are you getting your 5 a day?
5 A Day recommend you eat a combination of 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day to set you up for a healthier lifestyle.  Visit their website to get tips and recipes for healthier meals.

Healthy Start - expectant mums and families with children under 4 who are on certain benefits for low income households may be entitled to weekly vouchers worth £3 which can be exchanged for milk, fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and infant formula milk.  You can also get free vitamins.  For a leaflet and application form for Healthy Start speak to your midwife or health visitor or call 08701 555 455. 

The British Nutrition Foundation is a registered charity. It promotes the wellbeing of society through the impartial interpretation and effective dissemination of scientifically based knowledge and advice on the relationship between diet, physical activity and health.  Check out their website (see Related Links) which is full of useful information.

Teenage Health Freak - for teenagers who have burning questions they need answers to pop in to Dr Ann's Virtual Surgery at Teenage Health Freak (see Related Links).

The following are useful phone numbers:

Alcoholics Anonymous - 0845 769 7555
Diabetes UK - 0207 424 1000
Healthy Start - 08701 555 455
NHS Direct - 0845 4647
NHS Smoking Helpline - 0800 1690169
Wakefield Dental Helpline - 0845 122 0221
Wakefield Well Women Centre - 01924 211114

To find information about the nearest doctors, dentists, opticians, or pharmacies (chemists) to where you live click on Wakefield Healthcare Services in Related Links.