The model that GatorWell uses is adopted from the SAMHSA model.

APPROACH TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Your overall wellness matters in college as well as once you are out of college.

The 8 Dimensions of Wellness can impact your academic success so it can be beneficial to consider where you are with the various dimensions.

GatorWell is excited to be using an 8 Dimension model of wellness to help UF students be the best versions of themselves and to perform as well as they can academically.

Overall wellness involves more than ones physical and mental health.

The model being adopted by many health and wellness professionals and organizations around the country is a multi-dimensional model known as the 8 dimensions of wellness.

These dimensions are physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, occupational, financial, and social wellness.

Students report that stress and anxiety are one of the biggest obstacles to their academic success. Stress and anxiety often stem from neglect of one of these dimensions. With a comprehensive look at each dimension, it is possible to identify the area a student has been neglecting and implement strategies to improve wellness in that particular dimension.

DEFINITIONS OF THE 8 DIMENSIONS OF WELLNESS

PHYSICAL

Recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy food, and sleep.

This dimension also involves seeking medical attention when needed and taking part in primary care/prevention screenings.

OCCUPATIONAL

Personal satisfaction and enrichment from one’s work.

This dimension is also about being able to balance your responsibilities – academics, work, extracurricular, etc. while having time to do the things you enjoy.

FINANCIAL = (OCCUPATIONAL)

Satisfaction with current and future financial situations.

This dimension is about learning how to successfully manage expenses for both the short and long term, and not living beyond your means.

ENVIRONMENTAL

Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being.

This dimension is about being aware of the natural and built environment.

It looks at who and what you are surrounded by, how the environment impacts you, and how your actions impact the environment.

SOCIAL

Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system.

This dimension includes your relationships with friends and family as well as how you are connected to and involved in the community.

INTELLECTUAL

Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills.

This dimension involves having curiosity about the world around you and being a lifelong learner.

EMOTIONAL

Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships.

This part of wellness looks at feelings and thoughts and how you cope with and react to your emotions.

It helps you cope with the ups and downs of life by working on building resiliency.

SPIRITUAL

Expanding a sense of purpose and meaning in life.

This dimension involves clarifying your values and beliefs.

This area also deals with how you create meaning in your life and define your purpose.