Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 1 Understanding Your Health and Wellness 7 A ccording to her doctor, 13-year-old Hannah passed her physical exam with flying colors and is the picture of health. At home, however, Hannah is often under stress and gets so anxious that she cannot sleep or focus on her schoolwork. She is frequently tired and eats on the go. She quit the soccer team and took up smoking with her boyfriend and his friends. Hannah avoids making decisions and planning for her future. Instead, she prefers to “go with the flow.” Aiden, also 13, was born with a breathing condition that makes running and playing most sports difficult. He manages his condition by following his doctor’s orders. He takes his medicine, makes sure to eat well, and gets plenty of sleep. He also gets a moderate amount of physical activity. He does not smoke or drink. Aiden’s positive attitude attracts other people to him, so he has many friends. He sets goals for his future, and is confident that he will succeed if he works hard. So who do you think is healthier—Hannah or Aiden? Is Hannah healthier because her doctor said she is the picture of health? Is Aiden healthier because he seems to take better care of himself overall? In this lesson, you will learn about the different aspects of health and wellness and overall well-being. You will also discover the connections between healthcare and wellness. Aspects of Health and Wellness The World Health Organization (WHO) is an international organization that promotes health across the world. The WHO defines health as not just the absence of disease, but as a state of complete physical, mental and emotional, and social well-being. Well-being refers to a person’s overall satisfaction that life’s present conditions are good. Figure 1.1 shows common characteristics that describe people in a state of well-being. Sanmongkohl/Shutterstock.com are productive at school, work, and home have access to resources for meeting basic needs, such as food, sleep, and physical activity get along well with others and participate in social activities enjoy a long life have a positive attitude and are happy engage in behaviors that promote health have a sense of fulfillment and purpose People in a State of Well-Being... Figure 1.1 How you feel about yourself and your life affects your well-being. People who have a positive attitude and are happy often experience a higher level of well-being. How would you describe your well-being? Are there steps you could take to improve your well-being?