Student Health Promotion

Social wellness incorporates the social skills one needs to relate to others and engage in the campus community. Positive social relationships with peers, family and the greater campus community can serve as social supports. Being part of student groups that interest you, and developing friendships with people in your house or classes are ways in which we can grow our social networks.  

Our built and natural surroundings influence how safe, comfortable, and healthy we are, whether we are learning, working or living. Looking for student groups that focus on environmental issues or practicing recycling, bringing your water bottle or coffee cup with you to fill up are all ways in which we can practice our environmental well being.

What we mean when discussing our intellectual dimension of wellbeing is active participation in your scholastic pursuits. When health choices are made that do not take into account our intellectual dimension, our ability to learn can be compromised, impacting both the academic and career goals that we have. Engaging in this dimension means seeking help academically when you need it, and engaging fully in your academic experience here.

This dimension is built upon our beliefs, identity, and cultures. This dimension fuels a lot of what and why for us and ultimately for many lead us to occupational choices. Volunteering through Bennington Acts, joining the interfaith community, or helping your peers to learn about a topic that you feel strongly about are all ways in which to engage with meaning and purpose.

Optimal mind-body practices can help reconnect body and soul. Caring for the body’s physical and emotional optimal health through exercise, nutrition, sleep, meditation, breathing techniques, and other methods can reduce the harmful effects of stress. Meditating, going to the Meyer Recreation Barn, or joining a club sport are all ways to engage in the mind and body dimension of well being.