Welcome to our HAPS April Newsletter
April is Stress Awareness Month
Did you know that April is Stress Awareness Month? It’s no secret that stress is a major contributor to all kinds of health problems, and this month is all about reducing it as much as possible.
5 simple ways to try to reduce stress
Breathe – taking a few deep breaths can help slow your heartrate relax muscles and calm your mind.
Exercise – really does prompt your body to release feel good hormones. Doesn’t have to be a full workout, just a 20 min walk around the block or a simple yoga workout from the internet.
You time – Build some time for yourself into your to do list. Read a book, cook a nice meal, call a friend for a chat. Taking time and looking forward to these rewards should build some resilience for the tougher times.
Organise – stress can kick in when you feel overwhelmed. Writing a to do list and setting targets to complete these will help you focus and stop you feeling out of control.
And finally,
Talk, Talk, Talk – Turn to family and friends or even a support group to share worries and stresses. If you would like some guidance in accessing support or someone to chat to, then our team in HAPS will be happy to give you details of organisations that specialise in this.
Stoma support groups
Would you like to be in touch with other individuals who may have shared the same experiences as you? The following groups all welcome new members and contact details are below;
Colostomy UK; Support – Colostomy UK – Supporting and empowering you
Ileostomy association We are strong – Ileostomy & Internal Pouch Association (iasupport.org)
Urostomy association. The Urostomy Association – Support & Information for patients and carers
Connect Prescription Services Website
We will be posting live information on the service phone-lines on the website. There’s information on how to order your prescriptions, frequently asked questions, and some useful contacts. The link to access this is below;
Ways to Order
In addition to telephoning in your order you can also email your prescription when it is due. Simply confirm your details (Name, DOB, address) and the items required. We will process the request and respond to your email with confirmation of receipt. Please forward your request to;
Connectservices.hccg.HAPS@nhs.net
Please be aware, if you are planning a holiday to order your supplies within plenty of time.
Our busy periods on the phone lines tend to be Monday all day and the first and third Wednesday afternoon of each month. Tuesdays after a bank holiday are also very busy and wait times on the phone may be longer. We apologise for any delay during these times.
Our quietest times on the phones tend to be our extended hours between 17.00-20.00 Monday and Wednesday and Saturday mornings between 09.00-13.00
Bank holiday closed dates 2022
Thurs 2nd June 2022
Friday 3rd June 2022
Saturday 4th June 2022
Monday 29th August 2022
Monday 26th December 2022
Tuesday 27th December 2022
Monday 2nd January 2023