Question

Describe how the seven components of wellness influence the illness-wellness continuum. What happens on the continuum if there is a change in one or more of the seven components?

Answer 1

Seven dimensions of wellness are:

1. Physical
2. Emotional
3. Intellectual
4. Social
5. Spiritual
6. Environmental
7. Occupational

Wellness is not only related to physical well being. Wellness is a broad term that encompasses physical, mental, spiritual, social well being. Each dimension has its own importance and their interaction with each creates a quality of life.

Physical fitness, emotional and mental stability, social interaction, intellectual and creative activities, spiritual beliefs and values, healthy environment and occupational satisfaction helps to improve quality of life. All these adds meaning and purpose to life, harmony and peace, satisfaction and sense of fulfillment to life which promotes wellness.

If there is a change in any one of the seven dimensions it will hinder wellness of an individual. It will lead to deterioration of health. It will result in illness, disability and premature death.