Lecture Notes on Health and Wellness

Introduction

• Health and wellness are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings.
• Health: The capacity to lead a satisfying life, fulfill ambitions, and accommodate change.
• Wellness: Awareness and behavioral choices to support health.

Characteristics of Health and Wellness

• Personal: Specific to an individual's life.
• Dynamic: Changes daily based on choices.
• Holistic: Not just absence of disease; includes various dimensions.
• Illness and wellness exist on a spectrum.

Interactions of Health Dimensions

• Health dimensions are interdependent.
• Example: Social wellness affects mental and emotional wellness.
• Physical activity impacts emotional stability.

Wellness Assessment

• Plot personal wellness on a model to identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Dimensions include emotional, environmental, social, mental, and spiritual wellness.
• Set goals based on weak points (e.g., social interactions).

Transition and Health

• Adolescence to young adulthood involves increased autonomy and responsibilities.
• Transition impacts coping mechanisms and wellness.
• Awareness of changes and making healthy choices is crucial.

Influences on Health and Wellness

• Family: Major influence on values and choices (positive and negative).
• Society: Education, career, and social norms affect wellness.
• Media: Can provide both positive and negative messages.

Making Informed Choices

• Avoid reactive or curative approaches, focus on proactive wellness.
• Establishing balanced habits and routines is key for long-term health.

Culture and Health Perspectives

• Western cultures rely on scientific views and medicine.
• Non-western cultures may emphasize spiritual harmony.

Conclusion

• Health is multi-dimensional and life-long.
• Decisions in one area affect other dimensions.
• Consistent and informed decisions lead to permanent wellness and high quality of life.