Emotional Wellness

“People are as happy as they make up their minds to be”
-Abraham Lincoln

Emotional wellness is a dynamic state that fluctuates frequently with your other six dimensions of wellness. Being emotionally well is typically defined as possessing the ability to feel and express human emotions such as happiness, sadness, and anger. It means having the ability to love & be loved and achieve a sense of fulfillment in life.

Being able to identify the barriers and obstacles in the way of achieving emotional wellness and taking appropriate steps to cope with such problems is also important. Emotional wellness encompasses optimism, self-esteem, self-acceptance, and the ability to share feelings.

Another critical element of emotional wellness is the ability to manage stress. Stress can occur when external and/or internal resources exceed the resources of the person. Stress is defined as the physical and emotional responses that accompany any stimulus that disrupts an individual’s normal life.

A person participating in a big game, one who is preparing for a final exam, or someone struggling to pay for college will all experience stress.

Physical responses to stress may include an accelerated heart rate, an elevated blood pressure, increased perspiration to cool your skin, headaches, and various muscle aches. Responses to stress vary from person to person and may include laughing, crying, or overindulging with food. Inappropriate behavioral responses include the use of drugs or alcohol and violence.

People who manage stress well and have a high level of emotional wellness have more time to enjoy life. Techniques for managing stress include: surrounding yourself with a positive support network, eating well, managing your time appropriately, and practicing relaxation techniques and exercising.

Achieving emotional/psychological wellness is not always an easy process. The first step is to assess where you are now and determine what changes you wish to make. When self-help measures aren’t enough, seek professional help.

Tips for optimal emotional wellness:

• Tune-in to your thoughts and feelings
• Cultivate an optimistic attitude
• Seek and provide support
• Learn time management skills
• Practice stress management techniques
• Accept and forgive yourself.

Emotional Wellness at UND

University Counseling Center
ADAPT/Peer Educators
Conflict Resolution Center
Department of Psychology
Women’s Center

Emotional Wellness at the Wellness Center

Emotional Wellness beyond UND

National Institute of Mental Health
American Institute of Stress