How would you describe the difference between health and wellness? Please provide personal examples and reflections.
How would you describe the health status of college students at your school?
Based on assessing your dimensions of wellness, what are your top two health behaviors you would like to change or improve? (Be specific)
Health can be described as a state of physical, mental, and social well-being. It refers to the absence of disease or illness and the ability of an individual to function optimally. For example, being physically healthy means having good bodily functions, being free from chronic health conditions, and having high levels of physical fitness. Mental health includes emotional well-being, cognitive abilities, and the absence of mental disorders. Lastly, social health refers to having supportive relationships and a sense of belonging in society.
Wellness, on the other hand, goes beyond the absence of illness and focuses on the overall well-being of an individual. It involves actively pursuing a balanced and fulfilling life in various dimensions such as physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, social, and environmental. Wellness encompasses healthy lifestyle choices, self-care, stress management, personal growth, and finding a sense of purpose.
As a personal example, I can feel physically healthy by exercising regularly, eating a nutritious diet, and getting enough sleep. However, my overall wellness can be impacted if I neglect my emotional well-being by not addressing stress or neglecting self-care practices. It is possible to be physically healthy but still struggle with emotional or mental well-being, which highlights the difference between health and wellness.
The health status of college students at my school seems to vary. While some students may prioritize their health and maintain an active lifestyle, others may struggle to find time for exercise and proper nutrition due to academic and personal commitments. Additionally, mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression are prevalent among college students, which can impact their overall health status.
Upon assessing my dimensions of wellness, two health behaviors I would like to change or improve are stress management and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. As a student, I often find myself overwhelmed with academic responsibilities, leading to elevated stress levels. I would like to improve my ability to cope with stress through techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and regular exercise. Additionally, I aim to establish a better work-life balance by setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and ensuring I have time for activities outside of academics.