Overall wellbeing involves more than just physical and mental health. The Dimensions of Wellbeing is a holistic model utilized by many health and wellness professionals and organizations around the country. The specific model that GatorWell uses has been adopted from the SAMHSA model.
Approach to health and wellbeing
Your overall wellbeing matters in college as well as in your life after college. The Dimensions of Wellbeing impact your academic success, so it's beneficial to consider where you are with the various dimensions. GatorWell is excited to be using a dimension model of wellbeing to help UF students be the best versions of themselves and to perform as well as they can academically.
The model's dimensions include physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, occupational, financial, cultural and social wellness.
Students report that stress and anxiety are among the biggest obstacles to academic success. Stress and anxiety often stem from neglect of one of these previously mentioned 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 wellbeing in that particular dimension.
Definitions of the Dimensions of Wellbeing
CULTURAL
Developing awareness, knowledge, and appreciation for one’s identities and the identities of others. Ability to create and maintain a positive, inclusive environment that values inclusivity, diversity, and social justice.
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.
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.
FINANCIAL
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 living within your means.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.