It’s the same story every year. It’s cold, the days are short and it feels like everyone around you is coughing or sneezing. Seasonal illnesses like colds and the flu hit their peak when people’s immune systems might be weaker, coupled with higher indoor crowding and increased viral activity in a colder climate. But you don’t have to wait for an inevitable sickness—you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones more easily than you might think.

Self-care is health care. Whether it’s making healthy choices, taking a daily multivitamin or keeping essential over-the-counter medicines like cough and cold remedies stocked, self-care is an opportunity to proactively manage your health. When you take steps that help you get sick less often—and recover faster when you do—you’re not just helping yourself. In fact, research cited in a report from Food, Health and Consumer Products of Canada suggests that 500,000 more Canadians could have access to a family doctor if just two per cent of patients who describe their cold symptoms as mild or minor implemented self-care.

Some key self-care practices. Here are some suggestions from the self-care experts at consumer health company Haleon:

  • Wash hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitizer when soap is not available. 
  • Staying hydrated helps your overall health by preventing dehydration. Getting good-quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. 
  • For minor coughs, sore throats or congestion, having over-the-counter medicines on hand can help you feel better by managing your symptoms. 
  • Taking vitamin supplements in addition to a balanced diet can help support and maintain your immunity. Consider using a multivitamin to help you meet your nutritional requirements.

Reducing stress and making time to rest and do things that bring you joy can make a real difference to your hormone levels, which impacts your immune system.

Getting well and staying well during cold and flu season doesn’t have to be a challenge. By making sure you have the supplements and medicines you need and following simple self-care habits, you can take greater charge of your own health. Learn more at getwellstaywell.ca.