20/01/2026
🦋💙 January is Thyroid Awareness Month 💙🦋
At MAK Community Care, we’re taking this month to shine a light on thyroid health and to show support for the Team and the people we support who are living with—or recovering from—thyroid conditions, including thyroid cancer.
🦋 What Does the Thyroid Do?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly‑shaped gland in your neck with a big job:
It helps regulate…
✔️ Energy levels
✔️ Breathing and heart rate
✔️ Weight and metabolism
✔️ Body temperature
✔️ Mood and concentration
When the thyroid isn’t working correctly, it can affect the whole body.
⚖️ Hyperthyroidism vs Hypothyroidism
Understanding the difference can help with early recognition.
🔺 Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
The thyroid makes too much hormone.
Common symptoms include:
• Rapid heartbeat
• Anxiety or irritability
• Weight loss
• Difficulty sleeping
• Shaking or tremors
• Heat intolerance
🔻 Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
The thyroid doesn’t make enough hormone.
Symptoms may include:
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Depression or low mood
• Feeling cold
• Dry skin/hair
• Brain fog or poor concentration
If these sound familiar, it may be worth speaking to a GP.
🩺 Ways to Check Yourself
You can do a simple neck check at home:
1. Stand in front of a mirror.
2. Take a sip of water.
3. Watch the lower front of your neck as you swallow.
4. Look for lumps, swelling, or asymmetry.
If you notice anything unusual, book an appointment with your GP.
Blood tests can also check thyroid hormone levels—simple and widely available.
💚 Self‑Care for Thyroid Health
While medical treatment is essential, these habits can help overall wellbeing:
• Prioritise rest and sleep
• Maintain a balanced diet
• Manage stress where possible
• Stay active at a pace that’s right for you
• Keep regular medical appointments
🤝 A Message of Support
We want to recognise and support our MAK Community Care team members who live with thyroid conditions or who have experienced thyroid cancer. Your strength, resilience, and dedication are deeply appreciated.
If you are managing a thyroid condition and need adjustments, understanding, or support, please know our door is always open. 💙