Georgia Tech is utilizing an eight-dimension model for wellness to encourage our students and employees to think holistically about their wellness efforts and behaviors. Individual wellness alone is not sufficient to transform culture. Combined with efforts to advance policies and practices at the unit- and Institute-levels, wellness actions are a component of overall well-being for person, place and planet. Below are brief definitions of each dimension adapted from work conducted by the Global Wellness Institute, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the University of Maryland at College Park.
Emotional
Coping effectively with life stressors, having self-esteem, and expressing optimism, as well as being aware of our feelings, accepting the full range of emotions in self and others and expressing them appropriately.
Environmental
Honoring the interdependent, dynamic relationship we have with our environment — whether social, natural, built or digital — and our responsibility for sustaining it; occupying pleasant, nurturing, safe, and stimulating spaces and places.
Financial
Having basic needs met, applying resource management skills to live within one’s means, making informed financial decisions, setting realistic financial goals, and preparing for short- and long-term needs or emergencies.
Intellectual
Finding ways to engage in lifelong learning, expand knowledge and skills, and interact with the world through problem-solving, experimentation and curiosity, as well as thinking critically, analyzing rationally, and exploring new ideas.
Occupational
Getting personal satisfaction and enrichment from work, hobbies and volunteer efforts that are consistent with one’s values, goals and lifestyle, as well as taking a proactive approach to career planning and growth.
Physical
Replenishing the body through physical activity, sleep, and nutrition; engaging in no- or low-risk alcohol, tobacco and other drug use; conducting routine health care/screenings; and adopting preventive measures such as vaccines and condom use.
Social
Connecting and engaging with others and our communities in meaningful ways, having a well-developed support system, demonstrating intercultural competencies, engaging in constructive dialogue, and having a sense of belonging, inclusion, and mattering.
Spiritual
Searching for and/or having a sense of purposeful existence and meaning in life, as well as seeking harmony with the universe, extending compassion toward others, practicing gratitude, and engaging in self-reflection.