SAMHSA Wellness Initiative Overview

Introduction

• SAMHSA: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
• Created the Wellness Initiative to help individuals with mental and/or substance use disorders.
• Focus: Eight Dimensions of Wellness to improve overall behavioral health.

Importance of Wellness

• Improves longevity and health.
• Addresses early mortality from treatable and preventable conditions.
• Wellness is about life, living, and becoming the healthiest version of oneself.

Eight Dimensions of Wellness

1. Emotional Wellness

   • Listen to feelings and express them to trusted individuals.
   • Maintain a positive outlook.

2. Financial Wellness

   • Understand finances.
   • Establish good financial habits and plan for the future.

3. Social Wellness

   • Sense of belonging and reliable support system.
   • Make at least one social connection daily.
   • Seek advice from peers or support groups.
   • Create healthy friendships.

4. Spiritual Wellness

   • Discover values and beliefs that are important to you.
   • Find satisfaction in things you are passionate about (work, school, volunteering).

5. Physical Wellness

   • Increase activity levels according to abilities.
   • Get restful sleep.
   • Choose healthy foods.
   • Explore outdoors to reduce stress and increase energy.

6. Intellectual Wellness

   • Be a lifelong learner and expand knowledge.
   • Find creative outlets that stimulate curiosity.
   • Be open to new ideas and insights.

7. Environmental Wellness

   • Positive environment has a calming effect.
   • Seek surroundings that promote good health and safety.

8. Occupational Wellness

   • Achieve satisfaction from work, school, and volunteering experiences.

Vision of SAMHSA

• Envision a future where individuals pursue optimal health and happiness.
• Focus on recovery and a fulfilling life in the community.

Key Takeaways

• Wellness is an ongoing pursuit and can be challenging.
• Strive for small daily improvements as a key to success.

Additional Resources

• For more information on wellness, visit: www.samhsa.gov/wellness-initiative