Dedication Without Medication
We are human beings, with feelings and emotions
Seek medical advice when not ourselves or feeling ill
However, solutions for better health need to be more people centred
Seeing beyond popping a prescription pill
Around 1.1 billion medicines are given unnecessarily
A fact, not fake or fiction
Medicine is no longer affordable or sustainable
For wellbeing, the alternative is a social prescription
The first step is acknowledging the problem
Where patients discuss their need with the local GP
Mental health, anxiety and depression are key topics
Isolation, vulnerability and the lonely
A referral is made to community connectors
Where we reach out a helping hand
We empower individuals to find a path
We listen, we mentor, we understand
Opportunities and doors are opened
Where we guide people through what can often feel like a maze
Volunteering, sports, groups and activities are on offer
Choices, for people to benefit from better days
The focus and priorities remain on individuals
Where we go the extra mile
We care with passion about people in our community
An outcome is to see someone simply smile
Many top tips can increase our wellbeing
Walking, gardening, cooking, art or fresh air
A chat over a cup of tea
Or talking about things you want to share
We must remind ourselves - we are not robots
We have no on/off button or remote
We all struggle, that is normal
It is ok to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope
Our knowledge and understanding is vital
We show determination and dedication
A new medical mind-set is needed
Without medicinal intervention
We will open up potential paths
Hold the door as Clients turn the key
We see the person, we signpost and support
The answer isn’t always in the cabinet of the pharmacy.
Written By Jenny Capper
March 2023
For more on social prescribing see our page put together for Social Prescribing Day