When You Feel Well, You Do Well

HERO believes that when you feel well, you do well.  But what does being “well” mean and how is it achieved?  Wellness is a broad term that is frequently used and refers to eight interconnected dimensions.  Wellness in these eight dimensions is dynamic and always changing.  When something happens in our lives that impacts one dimension, other dimensions are impacted as well. Additionally, lived experiences, culture, and environmental factors can impact those eight dimensions of wellness.

HERO utilizes a multifaceted approach to behavior modification to address this complicated and interconnected system:

  • Interactive Programs provide education on various health topics to increase knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions and adopt healthy behaviors.
  • Health Coaching Sessions offer individualized sessions utilizing brief motivational interviewing and honoring the transtheoretical model - stages of change theory. Participants can expect to be in a judgement-free environment and to receive skills necessary to reach their wellness goals.
  • Presentations deliver information to broad groups to promote healthy lifestyles, explore access to healthcare resources, and create a supportive environment.
  • Engaging Events make connections possible to promote health literacy, raise awareness of public health issues, and provide opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration. We love to take our “show on the road”!

By using these different pathways, we improve our reach to KU students at various levels of the social ecological model and create a culture of wellness on our campus as personal health and wellness behaviors do impact the people and community that surround us. 

All dimensions of wellness need attention for a person to truly thrive. There doesn't have to be a perfect balance among all dimensions; furthermore, strive for personal harmony that is most authentic for you. This process requires active awareness, self-acceptance, and commitment. 

Wellness is not a static state, but rather a journey of making conscious choices and taking proactive steps towards a more balanced and healthy life.