Trusted resources to help you look after your health
Many common conditions can be managed with self-care advice, pharmacy support, or direct-access NHS services. This page brings together trusted resources to help you find the right help quickly. Self-help is for non-emergency problems only.
In an emergency
Call 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk. For urgent but non-life-threatening problems, call NHS 24 on 111.
NHS Inform provides reliable, clinically-approved information to help you understand your symptoms and decide what to do next.
Your local pharmacist is a qualified healthcare professional who can help with many common health problems.
Pharmacists can give advice, sell over-the-counter medicines, and for some conditions, provide NHS treatment directly through Pharmacy First Scotland – often without needing to see a GP at all.
Pharmacy First allows pharmacists to assess and treat common conditions including:
The pharmacist will assess your symptoms and, if appropriate, provide treatment free on the NHS. If your condition needs GP involvement, they will advise you on next steps.
You can access many NHS services directly, without needing a GP referral. Check each service for eligibility and how to apply.
How to refer yourself:
How to refer yourself:
How to refer yourself:
How to refer yourself:
How to refer yourself:
How to refer yourself:
Looking after your mental health is just as important as your physical health. There is support available, and you do not have to face difficulties alone.
In a life-threatening emergency, always call 999.
It's okay to ask for help. Mental health problems are common and treatable. If you are struggling, please reach out – whether to a friend, family member, your GP, or one of the services above. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you can start feeling better.
If you have a long-term health condition, we are here to support you with regular reviews, advice, and ongoing care.
Browse NHS Inform's trusted health information covering all aspects of healthy living and wellbeing.