Why Wellness Matters

Why have so many people with behavioral health challenges been dying, in some cases,

decades earlier than the general population? Because co-occurring medical conditions

which are both preventable and treatable, such as diabetes, heart problems, respiratory

or infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS, have not been adequately addressed.

According to SAMHSA, higher risk factors include:

 High rates of smoking, substance use, obesity, and “unsafe” sexual practice;

 Poverty, social isolation, trauma, and incarceration;

 A lack of coordination of care between behavioral and primary health care

providers;

 Discrimination (stigma);

 Side effects from psychotropic medications; and

 An overall lack of access to quality, culturally appropriate health care services.

To increase length and quality of life for our members having co-occurring medical and

behavioral health conditions, our behavioral health system has placed more emphasis on

health and wellness programs, such as Peer Whole Health (PWH) and Chronic

Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP). Both programs are peer-led.

Another area of focus is on developing better coordination of care between medical

doctors and behavioral health prescribers. This coordination of care is being referred to

now as integrated health care.

Nationally, health and wellness programs are strongly emphasized as well. In September

2011, SAMHSA and the 10x10 Wellness Campaign joined together to introduce the first

national Wellness Week with their Eight Dimensions of Wellness program.

The Eight Dimensions of Wellness

The Wellness Dimensions go beyond the mind-body connection to encompass the mental,
emotional, physical, occupational, intellectual, and spiritual aspects of a person's life and
it is felt that each of these dimensions can affect overall quality and longevity of life. The
Eight Dimensions are described below:

• Emotional—Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships.
• Environmental—Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being.
• Financial–Satisfaction with current and future financial situations .
• Intellectual —Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills.
• Occupational—Personal satisfaction and enrichment from one’s work.
• Physical—Recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods and sleep.
• Social—Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system.
• Spiritual—Expanding our sense of purpose and meaning in life .