Tips for a healthy holidays

HEALTHY North Coast is reminding Northern NSW community members to look after their health and wellbeing during the holiday season.

Chief executive officer, Monika Wheeler, said it was important to be organised before the holiday period, such as checking medication supplies and booking New Year appointments.

“For many people, Christmas and the New Year are a welcome chance to slow down and take a break,” Wheeler said.

“For others, this time of year can be difficult, bringing feelings of loneliness, isolation, stress or grief. These feelings are more common than we often realise, but help is available.

“We ask that people check in on themselves and those around them, and to seek support early if things don’t feel quite right. Don’t wait until things are dire to ask for help.”

In addition to the free Urgent Care Clinics open seven days a week in Lismore and Tweed Heads, three free Safe Haven Centres are located in Lismore, Mullumbimby and Murwillumbah.

For free 24/7 health advice, call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 and for free 24/7 mental health support, call Medicare Mental Health on 1800 595 212.

If you require immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 and by text on 0477 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

For more information, visit healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services