General Health
There are a number of lifestyle changes that you can make to improve your general health. Some of these changes are not easy and will take commitment and perseverance in order to achieve your objectives and goals however the end results will be worth your while.
Here are just some of the steps you can take to become a healthier and happier you.
1. Stop Smoking
Did you know that?
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in Ireland.
Each year more than 6,000 people die prematurely from diseases caused by tobacco smoke.
Source Office of Tobacco Control 01/05/2008
Within the first 20 minutes of quitting, the healing process begins. The benefits will continue to improve your health and quality of life for years.
Visit www.otc.ie for further information on this topic
2. Use alcohol responsibly
Did you know that?
Alcohol abuse is a problem that can affect people of any age and background when they intentionally overuse alcohol. It is a serious medical and social problem but is not the same as alcoholism.
Alcoholism is a medical disease and people with this disease need treatment, counselling, or medical attention to learn how to stop drinking and to live a healthier life.
Source Department of Health and Children 01/05/2008
Alcohol abuse can interfere with every aspect of life. Responsible alcohol usage will reduce the risk of injuries to you and others and your overall health and well being will improve.
Visit www.dohc.ie or www.healthpromotion.ie for further information on this topic
3. Look after your heart
Did you know that?
Approximately 10,000 people die each year from cardiovascular disease (CVD) - including coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke and other circulatory diseases. CVD is the most common cause of death in Ireland, accounting for 36% of all deaths. The largest number of these deaths relate to CHD - mainly heart attack - at 5,000. 22% of premature deaths (under age 65) are from CVD.
Source Irish Heart Foundation 01/05/2008
You can look after your heart by quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating well and taking lots of exercise.
Visit www.Irishheart.ie for further information on this topic.
4. Mind your mental health
Did you know that?
- Depression is a very common condition affecting 1 in 4 of us at some point in our lives.
- Women are 3 to 4 times more likely to suffer from depression than men.
- If left untreated depression can prove fatal, resulting in the tragedy of suicide.
- It is estimated that over 400,000 people in Ireland experience depression.
Source Aware
If you are having problems you should contact your doctor as they can help. If you were suffering from physical illness you would ask for help so do not be embarrassed about asking for help for your mental health.
Visit www.aware.ie or www.yourmentalhealth.ie for further information on this topic.