An individual may appear to be healthy yet, still be depressed, tense or anxious. These psychological states may help to set the stage for physical illness or the potential for abuses to the body such as drinking, smoking and overeating. An individual can be living a process ofwellness and yet be physically handicapped, aged, etc. Traditional medical practices tend to treat only the physical needs of an individual. Its orientation is to a symptom - treatment system.
Optimum health is achieved when all three aspects are considered and cared for.
Wellness is a decision one makes to move toward optimal health. It becomes a way of life. It is an appreciation that everything you do, think, feel and believe has an impact on your state of health. Wellness is acceptance of oneself. Given the size and accessibility of this population, our schools can make an enormous, positive impact on the health of the nation.