18 to 65

All the information within this ‘living well’ section is here to help and support you to maintain a healthy balanced lifestyle. It is important that we look after our health and reduce our risk factors for poorer health as we enter the next chapter of our lives.

In Somerset, we have an average population of 588,328 people, of which 340,037 are aged between 16 and 60 years, which equates to approximately 58% of the population.

In mid-2024 the population of Somerset was estimated to be 588,328, a rise of 5,366 from 2023 and 15,228 more than at the 2021 Census. Somerset Intelligence data.

Pages in this section

Alcohol and substance use

The effects of alcohol and substance use extend beyond physical health, influencing mental wellbeing, interpersonal relationships, occupational performance and community.

Brain health

Our brain is a very important organ which is sensitive to its environment and therefore sensitive to how well we take care of it

Domestic abuse

Information and support to support people experiencing domestic abuse.

Financial wellbeing

Managing your finances is a key part of looking after your health and wellbeing. Money worries can affect anyone at anytime.

Growing your own produce

Information, advice and support to help you think about and start growing your own fruit and vegetables at home or in the community

NHS Health checks

If you are aged 40 to 74 and living in Somerset, this free health check is your chance to get a midlife health MOT and find out your risk of developing serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and more

Healthy eating

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is an important part of maintaining good health and can help you feel your best

Healthy weight

Maintaining a healthy weight can bring a positive lifestyle; increasing confidence, health and happiness.

Heart health

Your heart has many different functions and is vital for keeping you alive and there is no magic age to start to think about your heart

High blood pressure

High blood pressure a fairly common but dangerous condition

Infectious diseases

Infectious diseases are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi

Libraries

Find out how your local library can support your health and wellbeing

Nature and wellbeing

There is growing evidence that spending time in green space or bringing nature into your everyday life can benefit both mental and physical wellbeing.

Orange Button – Community awareness scheme

Lets keep talking to prevent suicide

Orange Button Holder Hub

Be part of Somerset’s Suicide Prevention Community - stay connected, informed, and supported

Oral health

Advice and support to help you to look after your teeth and oral health

Preventing falls

Deconditioning and a loss of our basic physical strength and balance is the main cause of falling.

Sexual health

Information and advice about your sexual health and wellbeing, including some of the services that are available in Somerset

Sleeping well

Sleep is essential for our health and wellbeing as it has a direct impact on our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

Staying safe

It is never too late to get help for people who are suffering from domestic abuse.

Support with your mental health

Local and national services that can support you

Tobacco, smoking and vaping

Smoking is the leading cause of ill health and disease and over 60,000 people in Somerset are still smoking

Learning Disabilities

Includes information on disability rights as well as providing advice for those caring for people with a learning disability.

Local community groups across Somerset

There are lots of local community groups across Somerset who offer friendly faces and interesting activities. Here are a few ideas.