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Information, Advice and sources of support for young people in Suffolk

Healthy Suffolk

Take care of your health. Take care of your future.

On this page we share key health advice.

Looking after yourself not only helps you feel physically healthy, but it can boost your mood too.

It’s easy to put off visiting the dentist or to keep eating too many unhealthy snacks so give yourself a goal, reach out for support and be clear on why it is important to you…then go for it!

Take a look at the topics in our Health FAQ

  • Brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes
  • Spit, don’t rinse so the fluoride keep protecting your teeth.
  • Use a pea sized amount of toothpaste with 1,350 – 1,500ppm fluoride – check the packaging or ask your dentist. 
  • Healthy gums don’t bleed! If you see blood, focus your brushing around the gum line and speak to a dentist if it continues.
  • Visit a dentist regularly. To find an NHS Dentist visit www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist
  • Read more about looking after your teeth.
A model of teeth being brushed

  • You can get FREE condoms and lube from places across the county using the Suffolk Sexual Health Service app.  
  • They can also give FREE pregnancy tests and offer support to make sense of the result. 
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are very common, but everything can be treated or prevented.
  • By registering for the Suffolk Sexual Health Service Portal, you can get condoms and STI self-testing kits sent right to your door for FREE. To find out more visit https://suffolksexualhealthservice.org.uk/online-portal/
  • Read more about Sexual health

  • Everyone can register with a GP surgery for free – most surgeries let you register online.
  • To find a local GP surgery, visit https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp or scan the QR code.
  • No fixed address? You can use a temporary address or the address of the GP surgery.
  • Many GPs offer online booking – if not, call to make an appointment.
  • Doctors keep what you say private unless they have concerns for your safety.
  • If you feel uncomfortable, you can ask to have someone else in the room during your appointment.
  • Read more about the NHS and finding health information, Need a doctor?

  • Your feelings are valid and things can get better.
  • Feeling sad, anxious or angry sometimes is normal, but if these feelings don’t go away or feel overwhelming, talk to someone.
  • Opening up can be scary, but it’s always okay to ask for help.
  • Supporting someone who is struggling can be hard but it’s not your job to fix everything. Remember to look after yourself too.
  • If you are in crisis and need urgent help, call 999 or go to A&E.
  • Read more about mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Teenage boy on a walk in Beadnell, North East England. He is using his mobile phone looking away from the camera.

  • Shops can only sell tobacco or vapes to people 18 and over.
  • If you spend £10 per week on vapes or cigarettes, this works out to £520 per year!
  • Quit for 28 days and you’re five times more likely to stay smoke-free.
  • Set a quit date and plan ahead – this can help you make sure you achieve your goal
  • Think about the benefits of quitting: save money, feel better, improve your health.
  • Read more about Smoking and Vaping and reasons to quit!
Man Holding Vape And Tobacco Cigarette Over Desk

  • You may feel pressured to try drugs or alcohol but it’s always ok to say no.
  • Street drugs or drugs brought online are dangerous. You can never know what is in them.
  • Taking prescription medication that is not intended for you can also be dangerous.
  • If someone has taken drugs and needs medical help, call 999 and tell the ambulance crew everything you know. They usually won’t tell the police.
  • Drinking too much alcohol or mixing it with certain medications can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can kill.
  • Want help? visit https://www.turning-point.co.uk/services/suffolk/young-people for support.

  • A good relationship, whether it’s a friendship or romantic, should make you feel safe, valued and respected.
  • Consent is essential. It means giving permission and it can be taken back at any time.
  • Being in a relationship doesn’t mean automatic consent.
  • The legal age of consent in the UK is 16, so anyone under 16 can’t legally agree to sexual activity.
  • Signs of an unhealthy relationship include:
  • Feeling controlled or pressured.
  • Constant jealousy.
  • Fear of speaking up.
  • Insults or manipulation.
  • Feeling unhappy or anxious most of the time.
  • Read more about love and healthy relationships.

  • Fuel your body with a balanced diet to help it grow.
  • Remember to stay hydrated, especially while exercising. 
  • Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Why not try joining a club or a sports team?
  • Sleeping well is very important. Try 30 minutes of screen-free time before bed and cutting out caffeine if you’re finding it difficult.
  • People come in all shapes and sizes. If you are worried about your eating, talk to someone and get help
  • Read more about Feeling Healthy

  • It’s never too late to have your vaccinations. If you don’t know what you’ve had speak to your GP and they can check for you. 
  • Vaccines protect you, your family, and your community from serious illness.  
  • Some vaccines can help protect you and your partner against some STIs.
  • Vaccines can be given in different places including:
  • At school or college
  • GP surgeries
  • Walk-in pharmacies
  • Student health centres or campus clinics
  • Read more about immunisations

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Page updated on April 29th, 2026 at 02:54pm