fbpx Wellness and Well-Being | University of West Alabama Skip to main content
Explore UWA Request Info Schedule a Visit Apply Now

Student with books by column Wellness and Well-Being

Wellness is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. (World Health Organization) Every minute of every day, your behavior (thoughts, feelings, actions) contributes to the world as you know it. Wellness is a word that describes you, doing your best. Wellness is your life at a balanced optimum. Wellness is health in the deepest and broadest sense of the word. It is a practice, and a process. It requires patience and persistence. Wellness embraces your entire being, accepts you as you are, and loves you unconditionally. Wellness walks with you.


Overall wellness includes 8 components. These are:

Emotional

Having high self-esteem and confidence, satisfying relationships, a support network, and staying optimistic.

Financial

Maintaining a balanced budget for expenses while also practicing money-saving techniques. Preparedness for all expenses, including short-term, long-term, and emergencies

Intellectual

Getting the most out of life by asking questions, being open to new ideas, learning new skills, and studying effectively.

Physical

Maintaining optimal health by getting enough sleep, eating healthy, exercising, and avoiding unhealthy habits.

Social

Having a supportive social network, contributing to society, and valuing cultural diversity.

Spiritual

Possessing a set of guiding beliefs, principles, or values that give meaning and purpose to life, having a clear understanding of right and wrong, seeing the beauty in life and finding joy in everyday life. Spiritual wellness is also the capacity to love, have compassion for others, forgiveness, joy, and fulfillment.

Time Management

Managing time smartly to have more time to do the things we want to do.

Work (Paid or Unpaid)

The ability to get personal fulfillment from our work while still maintaining balance in our lives. Our desire to contribute to make a positive impact on the organizations we work in and to society as a whole.


Assistance is available through the UWA Counseling Services office with assessment and management of personal wellness.