The importance of wellbeing
About
Wellbeing is more than the absence of disease or illness. It is a combination of a person’s physical, social, emotional and mental health factors, as well as how you feel about yourself and your life.
Wellbeing is best viewed holistically, as every aspect of your life influences your wellbeing in some way. For example, having positive relationships with your friends, family, partner, work colleagues and community can help provide a sense of belonging and thus influence your wellbeing. Eating well, being physically active, earning sufficient money, having an enjoyable and fulfilling career and spiritual and religious beliefs are all linked to a strong sense of wellbeing.
Having a high degree of wellbeing means taking care of the core basics of your physical, mental and emotional health.
What to do
If you think your wellbeing could use a boost, here are some thing that may help improve your wellbeing.
- Start each day with thoughts of gratitude for three things you have in life that are important to you.
- Make regular time for social contact in-person to build strong healthy relationships with the important people in your life.
- Eat a wide variety of wholesome, nutritious foods including plenty of fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes and nuts.
- Be physically active every day.
- Ensure you get sufficient and good quality sleep every day.
- Find things in your work/studies that you find enjoyable and rewarding, particularly things that give you a sense of purpose or meaning.
- Join local organisations or clubs or even try volunteering to build a sense of belonging.
- Try to find balance in your work, study and personal life. And always include fun hobbies and leisure pursuits.
- The DeakinWELLBEING app can assist you to develop healthy habits and find balance in your life, which may improve your wellbeing.
Getting support
If you are concerned about your wellbeing and would like to speak with a health professional, Deakin's Counselling service and Deakin Medical Centre are available to Deakin students.
More help and advice
Better Health Channel provides information about wellbeing.