Healthy living

Alcohol is a drug that affects people in different ways. Heavy drinkers, ‘binge drinkers’ and very young drinkers are particularly at risk of serious health, personal and social problems. Treatment and support are available.

Carers look after people who are sick, elderly or who have a disability. A carer may be young or old. Carers can suffer stress and isolation but support and information are available.

Complementary and alternative medicine includes a range of treatments and products that are not considered part of standard health care. CAMs can work alongside conventional diagnosis and treatment, but scientific evidence on their use is limited.

Regular health checks can prevent many diseases and catch others before it's too late to change their course. Some health checks and screening tests can help prevent serious illness like cancer. See your doctor.

Immunisation can prevent many illnesses in children and adults. Vaccines are available for a range of childhood conditions and other infectious diseases like flu and hepatitis. Your health, age, lifestyle and occupation are the key factors that determine what vaccines you need and when. You may need specific immunisations when you travel.

A ‘good relationship’ means different things to different people. However, good adult relationships generally involve two people who respect each other, can communicate, and have equal rights, opportunities and responsibilities.

Safety in the home, at work and during travel can prevent accidents. Reduce your risk of injury from road trauma, drowning, chemical or food poisoning, ear or eye damage, infection and environmental hazards.

Sleep is important for the health of our body and mind. Lack of sleep can cause fatigue, poor concentration and mood changes. Common disorders include sleepwalking, restlessness, snoring, insomnia and sleep apnoea.

Travel and holidays are fun but accident, injury, illness, car sickness, jet lag or fear of flying can affect your enjoyment. Good medical advice, immunisation and safety precautions can protect your health and safety when travelling.

Managing your weight means a healthy diet and regular exercise. Fad diets are not the answer. A healthy weight may vary for different people. Some health conditions can make it difficult to control weight gain.

Work and careers can be rewarding but workplace demands, conflict, injury, retirement, losing a job or trouble finding work can cause problems. Learn how to handle job-related stress, deal with harassment and stay safe at work.