Page 7 - Progress Report 2019 07-31-19
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THE ROAD TO WELLNESS


                       Given the connection between stressors, behavioural responses to stress

               and mental health, the Hallman Mental Health Project endeavoured to create a

               framework that would support students in caring for themselves and in


               developing resiliency while in stressful situations.


                       This section will briefly discuss the importance of aspects of self-care.

               These aspects were adopted by the project, becoming the “Five Pillars” of student

               wellness.  These pillars became the foundation of marketing material, student


               events, and instructional resources.  The Five Pillars of wellness include

               mindfulness, sleep, exercise, socializing, and nutrition.


                       Though these pillars may appear to be straightforward, each pillar

               represents a step towards a health lifestyle and enhanced overall student


               wellness.  Sadly, unhealthy lifestyles are present in most higher education student

               populations which may trigger mental health problems (Moses, Bradley, &

               O’Callaghan, 2016).  This can have a great impact on student well-being,

               resiliency, and ultimately being successful in their studies.  Self-care behaviours

               established in emerging adulthood can provide a foundation for long-term health


               (Viner & Baker, 2005).  These behaviours include practicing mindfulness, ensuring

               healthy sleeping patterns, engaging in regular exercise, making time for

               socializing, and embracing healthy eating habits.  Self-care requires personal

               initiative; students must become aware of their self-care needs and must initiate

               strategies for meeting these needs (Turner, et al., 2005).



                       These five areas of self-care were consolidated into a bookmark.  This

               bookmark was handed out to students by their faculty members.  The intention of




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