Make a healthy start to 2023

While sticking to resolutions and good intentions can be tricky, the good news is that you’re not alone. Whether you’re planning on going smoke-free, want to lead a more active lifestyle or improve your wellbeing, there is advice and support available in Lewisham to help you succeed. 

Stop smoking

If you want help to stop smoking, you can contact our stop smoking service -  Smokefree Lewisham - for free advice, support and encouragement to help you quit for good. 

They offer free, friendly, practical support and advice on medications to support you while you stop smoking. The support is free and all medications are available on prescription.

To book into a clinic you can contact the service on 0800 0820 388 or email quit@smokefreelewisham.co.uk and they’ll arrange an appointment for you.

Clinics are held in GP practices, Lewisham Hospital, and in community venues. You do not need to be a registered patient at the practice to attend the stop smoking clinic.

Be more physically active

No matter how much you do, physical activity is good for your body and mind. Adults should aim to be active every day. Some is good – more is better still.

Why not give your local leisure centre a go? Our leisure centres are more than just gyms – some have swimming pools and offer range of fitness classes for all ages and abilities too! For a full list of leisure centres across the borough, visit our website. 

If the gym isn’t for you, there are lots of other ways to get moving and stay active across the borough. From large areas of ancient woodlands to outdoor gyms, our parks offer plenty to see, explore and do. Our website has more information about parks in Lewisham and their opening times and facilities. 

Reduce your alcohol intake

Cutting back on alcohol can quickly have a positive impact on your energy levels, mood and your wallet within just a few days. 

The Drink Coach alcohol test is an online two-minute survey with ten questions that will tell you how risky your drinking is and signpost you to additional support if needed. 

You can also download The Drink Coach app which lets you track your drinking, set goals and see how much money you can save. 

If you are worried about your drinking and need more support, you can contact the New Direction Drug and Alcohol Service, part of the national charity Change Grow Live. Their free, confidential and non-judgmental service is there to support you and can provide advice and information about the options available to help you stay safe and well. You can self-refer via telephone, email or just by coming in – visit their webpage for more information. 

Look after your mental health

If you want to improve your mental health, there are little things you can do that might help – and further support is there for those who need it. 

The Every Mind Matters NHS website and Good Thinking website has lots of expert advice and practical tips to help you look after your mental wellbeing. 

For anyone who feels like they need additional support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression or low mood, Lewisham Talking Therapies offers a range of psychological therapies to adults 18 years and over, who live or are registered with a GP in the borough – their services are free and confidential. Visit the Lewisham Talking Therapies website to find out more about how they can help and you can refer yourself. 

Boost your immunity 

This winter, both COVID-19 and flu are likely to be circulating at high levels, potentially at the same time. 

You can receive vital protection against COVID-19 this winter at a number of walk-in vaccination services across the borough.  

Vaccination is free and no appointments are needed to attend walk-in services. Some will also offer the flu vaccine as well, meaning that it’s never been easier or more convenient to get maximum protection and help to stay well this winter. The flu vaccine is important because, while flu is unpleasant for most people, it can be dangerous and even life threatening for some people, particularly those with certain health conditions. 

The NHS South East London website has a full list of the COVID-19 vaccination walk-in clinics in Lewisham. 

The NHS website has more information the flu vaccine, who is eligible, and where you can get it.