The 8 Dimensions of Wellness – Occupational Wellness

Posted on March 3, 2025 by shhswell

Prioritizing Occupational Wellness: Finding Fulfillment in Your Work

There are 8 overall dimensions or categories of wellness. Each dimension can and will influence the other dimensions. We will be doing a quick dive to explore each dimension of wellness in this mini-series. We will discuss what each dimension is devised of, how it can impact other parts of your wellness, and more!

Let’s quickly discuss wellness vs. health. Health just means the absence of disease. While wellness is more of a gradient, and the goal of wellness is for one to thrive in each aspect.

We are going to look at Occupational wellness for todays blog. Occupational wellness goes beyond just having a job—it’s about finding purpose, balance, and satisfaction in your work. When your career aligns with your values and supports your overall well-being, it enhances your quality of life.

Key Aspects of Occupational Wellness

Job Satisfaction: Enjoying your work and feeling a sense of purpose.
Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a healthy separation between professional and personal life.
Career Growth: Continuously learning, developing skills, and advancing in your field.
Stress Management: Navigating workplace challenges while maintaining mental and emotional well-being.
Financial Stability: Ensuring your career supports financial wellness and security.
Healthy Workplace Relationships: Building positive connections with colleagues and supervisors.
Alignment with Values: Working in a role that resonates with your passions and beliefs.
Ethical Work Practices: Ensuring your job aligns with your moral and professional standards.

Resources to Enhance Occupational Wellness

AMA Physician Health: Support for stress management, work-life balance, and mental health.
AAMC Well-Being in Academic Medicine: Insights on resilience and career satisfaction.
Medscape Lifestyle & Well-Being: Articles on burnout, financial planning, and workplace wellness.
NAMI Workplace Mental Health: Tools for fostering a supportive work environment.

Podcasts for Workplace Wellness

Physicians Guide to Doctoring – Career and wellness insights for medical professionals.
The ZDoggMD Show – Engaging discussions on healthcare and work-life balance.
Medical Mnemonist – Tips on professional growth and mental resilience.

By focusing on occupational wellness, you can create a fulfilling career while maintaining balance in other aspects of your life. Take time to assess your work satisfaction and explore resources to enhance your well-being!

Stay tuned for more aspects of wellness as we dive in!

Get Healthy SHHS!

This blog was written by Health and Wellness intern, Aysia Kirklen.

The 8 Dimensions of Wellness- Financial Wellness

Posted on February 27, 2025 by shhswell

Let’s quickly discuss wellness vs. health. Health just means the absence of disease. While wellness is more of a gradient, and the goal of wellness is for one to thrive in each aspect.

We are going to look at Financial wellness for todays blog. Financial wellness is just as important as physical and mental well-being. It’s about developing smart money habits that create financial stability and long-term security. By practicing financial wellness, you can reduce stress, gain control over your finances, and work toward achieving financial freedom.

What Is Financial Wellness?

Financial wellness means managing your money effectively to meet both short- and long-term goals. This includes budgeting, saving, investing, and making informed financial decisions to improve your overall quality of life.

Four Key Elements of Financial Wellness

1. Managing Short-Term Finances

Create and stick to a budget.
Track expenses and cut unnecessary costs.
Work toward increasing your income.

2. Planning for Long-Term Goals

Save for big purchases, such as a home or car.
Invest in your future, including retirement planning.
Build wealth through smart financial decisions

3. Achieving Present Financial Freedom

Pay down debt strategically.
Maintain an emergency fund for unexpected expenses.
Make conscious spending choices that align with your values.

4. Ensuring Future Financial Stability

Set long-term financial goals and stay committed.
Use financial tools like insurance and estate planning.
Work with a financial advisor if needed.

Financial Wellness vs. Financial Literacy
While financial literacy focuses on understanding money concepts—like saving, investing, and budgeting—financial wellness is about applying this knowledge to create a balanced and stress-free financial life.

Steps to Improve Financial Wellness

Create a Budget: Track income and expenses to manage spending.
Build an Emergency Fund: Aim for three to six months’ worth of expenses.
Reduce Debt: Pay off high-interest debt first.
Invest for the Future: Start saving for retirement and other long-term goals.
Seek Guidance: Consider speaking with a financial professional for personalized advice.
Improving financial wellness doesn’t happen overnight, but small, consistent steps can lead to a more secure and fulfilling financial future. By making mindful financial choices, you can work toward a life that aligns with your goals and values.

Stay tuned for more aspects of wellness as we dive in!

Get Healthy SHHS!

This blog was written by Health and Wellness intern, Aysia Kirklen.

Honoring Black History & Heart Health: A Commitment to Wellness

Posted on February 11, 2025 by shhswell

February is a time of both reflection and action. As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize the resilience, achievements, and contributions of Black leaders throughout history. At the same time, American Heart Month reminds us to take charge of our cardiovascular health—especially within the Black community, where heart disease disproportionately affects many individuals.

The Impact of Heart Disease in the Black Community

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for Black Americans, with high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke affecting the community at higher rates. Social determinants of health—such as access to healthcare, nutritious food, and stress management—play a role in these disparities. Raising awareness and taking proactive steps can help change this narrative.

Black Leaders in Health & Wellness

Throughout history, Black medical pioneers have paved the way for advancements in heart health and overall well-being. Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, one of the first surgeons to perform open-heart surgery, and Dr. Marie M. Daly, the first Black woman in the U.S. to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry (who studied the link between high blood pressure and diet), are just two examples of innovators whose work has shaped modern medicine.

Taking Action for Heart Health

Prevention is key to protecting your heart. Here are simple but effective ways to prioritize cardiovascular health:

Know Your Numbers – Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
Stay Active – Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
Eat Heart-Healthy Foods – Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Manage Stress – Meditation, deep breathing, and finding time to rest can positively impact heart health.
Schedule Regular Checkups – Early detection and preventive care can save lives.

This Black History Month, let’s honor the past while taking steps toward a healthier future. By prioritizing heart health, we empower ourselves, our families, and our community to thrive.

Let’s Get Healthy, SHHS! ❤️

This blog was written by Health and Wellness intern, Aysia Kirklen.

New Year’s Goals: Creating, Achieving, and Maintaining Success

Posted on January 22, 2025 by shhswell

As we enter a new year, many of us take the opportunity to set goals—whether it’s to improve health, enhance personal development, or accomplish professional milestones. But while goal-setting is common, sticking with those goals can be challenging. Here are some strategies to help you create and achieve your New Year’s goals with lasting success:

Start with Clear and Achievable Goals

Make your goals specific, measurable, and realistic. Instead of vague resolutions like “get healthier,” try something concrete, such as “I will walk 30 minutes five days a week.” Clear, measurable goals are easier to track and keep you motivated.

Break Goals into Small Steps

Dividing big goals into smaller, manageable steps reduces overwhelm and keeps you on track. For instance, if your goal is to exercise more, start with short workouts or small lifestyle changes like taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Each small win builds momentum.

Create an Action Plan

Write down your goals and outline the steps you’ll take to achieve them. A daily checklist or weekly schedule can help you stay organized and accountable. Sharing your goals with supportive friends or colleagues also increases your chances of success.

Stay Consistent and Flexible

Consistency is key, but life happens! If you face setbacks or miss a day, don’t give up. Adjust your plan as needed and keep moving forward. Remember, progress—not perfection—is the goal.

Track Your Progress

Monitoring your progress regularly keeps you motivated. Celebrate even small achievements—whether that’s completing a workout or sticking to a meal plan. Recognizing your success helps reinforce your commitment.

Stay Positive and Patient

Change takes time. Stay optimistic, and focus on the progress you’re making rather than how far you still have to go. Every step forward brings you closer to achieving your goal.

By keeping these tips in mind, you may find it easier to succeed in New Year’s Goal setting. Here’s to a healthy and successful year ahead, SHHS!

This blog was written by Health and Wellness intern, Aysia Kirklen.

The 8 Dimensions of Wellness – Intellectual

Posted on October 9, 2024 by shhswell

Let’s quickly discuss wellness vs. health. Health just means the absence of disease. While wellness is more of a gradient, and the goal of wellness is for one to thrive in each aspect.

We are going to look at intellectual wellness for todays blog. Intellectual wellness involves having an open mind when you encounter new ideas and continuing to expand your knowledge. Intellectual wellness can be broke up into four main categories: personal interests, brain exercise, education, and conversation. This dimension isn’t about being the smartest person in the room, or getting an A+ on every exam, it is the ability to think critically, reason objectively, make responsible decisions and explore new ideas and different points of view. Think about what you like to do or learn, if you are interested in learning a new language, do you keep up with current affairs, or do you take part in intellectual discussions? Here are a few tips and resources for you to maintain and improve your intellectual wellness in and out of school;

Flip through travel books or go online to find places you might enjoy reading about or visiting.
See what kind of skills training—such as writing, sign language, or blogging— might be available at the public library, local congregations, local colleges, or other community organizations.
Play crossword puzzles and other games like Sudoku.
Become familiar with websites like Games for the Brain (http://www.gamesforthebrain.com/).
Befriend people who can stimulate your mind.

Intellectual wellness can seem broad and confusing- but if you keep an open mind you will start to see what all it encompasses. Stay tuned for more aspects of wellness as we dive in!

Get Healthy SHHS!

The 8 dimensions of wellness – Environmental

Posted on October 9, 2024 by shhswell

Let’s quickly discuss wellness vs. health. Health just means the absence of disease. While wellness is more of a gradient, and the goal of wellness is for one to thrive in each aspect.

We are going to look into environmental wellness in todays blog. Environmental wellness is not just about the outside environment like trees and plants, it is about the environment that surrounds you! You can’t always choose what’s in the environments you live, work, or play in. But taking small steps to make your environments safer and limiting your exposure to potentially harmful substances can help keep you healthier. The National Health Institute provides some strategies for improving your environmental health- reducing your home health hazards, reduce allergies, hot and cold weather protection, air quality and water safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to maintain your environmental health;

Wash your bedding in hot water once a week.
Stay out of the ocean for at least 24 hours after a storm. Avoid places where storm water is released on the beach.
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities if the air is polluted.

Check your region’s air quality index at www.airnow.gov(link is external). Orange and red mean it’s a bad air day, so people with lung problems should avoid the outdoors. Purple and maroon mean air pollution is extreme, and everyone should try to stay inside in an environment with clean air.
Use vent fans in rooms that have lots of moisture, like the bathroom, to prevent mold growth.
If your home was built before 1978, test exposed paint for lead. You can buy test kits yourself or hire a professional. Some city health departments provide free test kits.
Keep your heat set to at least 68°F or higher during cold weather. If you need help paying your heating bills, see if you qualify for the HHS energy assistance program(link is external).
Open a window or use a fan to improve air circulation when you’re cleaning.

Environmental wellness can often be confused with other aspects of wellness. Stay tuned for more aspects of wellness as we dive in!

Get Healthy SHHS!

Summer Health Tips

Posted on May 17, 2024 by shhswell

The summer months are upon us! Let’s talk about some ways to stay on top of your health this summer, no matter where you are or what you do.

First, and foremost, these tips can and should be used year-round. Summer is just a great time for a reminder. Let’s get into it!

Sunscreen/ sun protection: Everyone, regardless of race/ethnicity/skin tone, can get sun burnt. Sun burns happen from excessive exposure to the sun, where the UV rays damage the skin. Some people may get sun burnt more easily than others, but sunscreen and sun protection is important for all. Each time you get a sun burn; you are increasing your risk for skin cancer to develop. Sun burns can cause chills, peeling of the skin, and even vomiting in extreme situations. Excess sun exposure can also lead to the development of winkles and fine lines, an easy way to help prevent this is to ensure you are wearing sunscreen every day!

Sunscreen Clip Art | Clip art, Chemistry projects, Education clipart

Hydration: Drinking enough water will help you stay healthy in various ways! Over the hot summer months, it is important to stay hydrated to help your body stay cool and avoid heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is a very dangerous illness, that can cause nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps. and more. This is caused by your body not being able to cool itself, so be sure to stay hydrated and be mindful of your activity levels when temperatures reach extreme levels.

Free Sunglasses Clipart Pictures - Clipartix

Eye protection: That’s right! Sunglasses are very important to your eye health. Just like your skin, the UV rays from the sun can be harsh and cause damage to your eyes. Anytime it is sunny, and you are outside, be sure to wear sunglasses to protect your eye health. Long term exposure can impact your vision, talk to your eye doctor about this and how to be sure you are protecting your eyes properly.

Lastly, consider using bug spray! Warmer weather will mean bugs like mosquitos, ticks, and fleas will be out more. Many insects like these can carry illnesses and can spread them to you when they bite. Better to be safe than sorry.

I hope all of these tips will help you have a happy and healthy summer!

Get Healthy SHHS!

The 8 Dimensions of Wellness – Emotional

Posted on April 25, 2024 by shhswell

Let’s quickly discuss wellness vs. health. Health just means the absence of disease. While wellness is more of a gradient, and the goal of wellness is for one to thrive in each aspect.

We are going to look at emotional wellness today. Emotional wellness is an awareness of your feelings. Emotional wellness can help you understand why you are feeling what you feel and how to respond to it. This can also be looked at as the ability to handle life’s challenges and being mentally resilient. The National Institutes of Health says, “Learning healthy ways to cope and how to draw from resources in your community can help you build resilience.” Another way to build resilience is learning healthy ways to cope with stress. Long term stress can become harmful to your health. There are many other things that can impact your emotional wellness, such as strengthening social connections, getting enough sleep, being mindful, and even dealing with loss.

Here are a few tips to incorporate into your everyday life to enhance your emotional wellness:

Taking time to be by yourself and reflect.
Laugh often!
Sharing your thoughts and feelings with those you trust.
Be kind to yourself!
Accept that mistakes happen and learn from them.

Emotional wellness can often be confused with other aspects of wellness. Stay tuned for more aspects of wellness as we dive in!

Get Healthy SHHS!

The 8 Dimensions of Wellness – Social

Posted on April 23, 2024 by shhswell

Happy April Jags! Lets talk wellness!

Let’s quickly discuss wellness vs. health. Health just means the absence of disease. While wellness is more of a gradient, and the goal of wellness is for one to thrive in each aspect.

The next dimension to explore is social wellness. Social wellness refers to the relationships we have and how we interact with others. Social wellness is all about people connecting with people. This can be in relation to family members, spouses, coworkers, friends, even neighbors! Social wellness is different for everyone, but it can include how you express yourself. As humans, we need social interaction in some form and to some extent. If you are an introvert or an extrovert, you will benefit from connecting in some way with other people! The United States Surgeon General has recently notified the public of the “loneliness epidemic” that is currently going on due to the pandemic and the changes that have occurred to society such as working remote more, virtual meetings, and other digital replacements.

The benefits of social wellness include increased self-esteem, reduced depression and anxiety, increased longevity, and development of life skills. Social wellness is impacted by the other dimensions of wellness immensely. Lack of social wellness can decrease mental and physical health, it can also reduce your emotional wellness. Many other dimensions of wellness can serve as opportunities to interact with friends, family, colleagues, etc. Think about physical wellness, work out with a buddy, walk with your spouse, go to a group fitness class, or even going to a public park! Your spiritual wellness could provide opportunities if you practice a religion with other people, or if you practice meditation. Even something like environmental could provide social wellness opportunities during things like a community clean up or spending time in public outdoor spaces.

So here are a few tips to try and start incorporating into your daily schedule to improve your social wellness:

Stay in touch with friends and family, you can text, call/ facetime, or even visit in person.
Join a group, it could be a club, organization, or even going to a group fitness class. There are so many options with this! Find something that interests you and you enjoy, chances are someone else likes that topic too!
Volunteer in your community. This can be through tutoring, doing a neighborhood clean up, or for a charity like your local animal shelter!
Surround yourself with people you care about. In more ways than one, you will benefit from a variety of social interactions.

That is all for social wellness. Starting to see how each dimension can impact the others?

Get Healthy SHHS!

The 8 Dimensions of Wellness- Physical

Posted on April 9, 2024 by shhswell

Happy April Jags! Lets talk wellness!

There are 8 overall dimensions or categories of wellness. Each dimension can and will influence the other dimensions. We will be doing a quick dive to explore each dimension of wellness in this mini-series. We will discuss what each dimension is devised of, how it can impact other parts of your wellness, and more!

Let’s quickly discuss wellness vs. health. Health just means the absence of disease. While wellness is more of a gradient, and the goal of wellness is for one to thrive in each aspect.

Let’s start with physical wellness. Physical wellness is doing things to care for your physical wellness now, and in the future. This can mean something a little different for everyone. Physical wellness can mean participating in physical activity and exercise – such as walking, playing sports, running, lifting weights, or even stretching. Physical wellness can also mean having a regular hygiene practice – such as brushing your teeth, bathing, combing your hair, or even something like cutting your nails! There are many other things than can impact your physical wellness, choices like going to the doctor, washing your hands, vaccinations, nutrition, and other aspects of wellness as well.

The National Institutes of Health state, “Positive physical health habits can help decrease your stress, lower your risk of disease, and increase your energy.” Sometimes, especially in college, taking care of your health and wellness can be overwhelming.

So here are a few tips to try and start incorporating into your daily schedule to improve your physical wellness:

Get active! Whether this is walking, stretching, playing sports, or lifting weights these are all majorly important to your health in so many ways.
Always wash your hands. Even if you don’t think they are dirty or you washed them a few hours ago, it is best practice to wash your hands and rid them of any germs!
Build healthy habits! This could be reducing your tobacco/nicotine habits, trying to eat more fruits and vegetables, drinking more water, or even getting 8 hours of sleep a night. Starting these habits now in college will make it all the more easier to maintain as you go through life.
Utilize your resources and ask a professional! As a college student you have access to various medical professionals at a reduced cost or even free. Take advantage of these resources now, even if you think it isn’t that important.

We will leave physical wellness at that for now, read the other dimensions of wellness to see how they all can impact each other.

Get Healthy SHHS!