Essentials of Health and Wellness

James Robinson, Ed.D., FAAHE

Deborah J. McCormick, Ph.D.

Unit 1Developing Health and Wellness Skills

Chapter 1Health for Adolescents

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Chapter Objectives

1. Define health

2. Describe the four dimensions of health

3. Explain the importance of health

4. Identify factors contributing to longevity

(continues)

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Chapter Objectives (continued)

5. Describe four characteristics of a person who is health-literate

6. List the seven skills practiced by a person who is health-literate

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Introduction

• Health greatly influences how long andhow well you will live

• Behaviors established during the teen years can affect your entire life

• Developing good health habits is part of becoming an adult

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The Health Continuum

• Your state of health constantly changes

• Optimal health is the highest level

• Homeostasis is the state of balance when body is functioning properly– Illness and injury disrupt homeostasis– The body naturally strives to maintain

homeostasis

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The Meaning of Health

• Health: measure of your condition at any given point in time

• Four dimensions of health1. Physical health

2. Mental and emotional health

3. Social health

4. Spiritual health

• Interaction of the dimensions of health

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Life Expectancy and Longevity

• Life expectancy: number of years you might live

• Longevity: length of your life span• Health habits influence both• Influences on longevity

– Heredity – Personal health behaviors– Environment – Economics

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Health Literacy

• Ability to obtain, interpret, understand, and apply basic health information and services

• Characteristics of a person who is health-literate– Self-directed learner– Critical thinker– Effective communicator– Responsible member of society

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The Dimensions of Health

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Health Literacy Skills

• Understanding health promotion and disease prevention

• Accessing valid health information and health-promoting products and services

• Practicing health-enhancing behaviors

• Recognizing influence of culture, media, and technology on health

(continues)

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Health Literacy Skills (continued)

• Using communication skills to promote health

• Setting goals and making decisions

• Advocating (supporting) personal, family, and community health

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Summary

• The state of your health varies and largely is under your personal control

• The habits you develop as a teen can influence the length and quality of your life

• A related concept to health is “wellness,” discussed in Chapter 2