1. Healthy Schools Denize Bainbridge Occupational Health Manager

2. Introduction Well-being > what it really means! Positive thinking impacting on health> locus of control Daily habits of wellness and how to effect success in well-being Mental health

3. Well-being at Work Definition: ‘ that part of an employee’s overall well-being that is determined primarily by work and which can be influenced by work - place interventions’

4. Well-being and Performance Associated with> Higher energy levels Better concentration and decision- making Improved ability to cope

5. Health Psychology Optimism and pessimism> have significant impact on health status Optimists >strong sense of personal control Pessimists>low sense of personal control

6. Ghandi “ if I have the belief that I can do it I will surely acquire the capacity to do it, even if I do not have it in the beginning.”

7. Biology of wellness habits Positive Beliefs Self-belief Optimism Healthy Lifestyle Choices Nutrition Physical activity Time out Optimal Wellness

8. Belief systems Recognise the importance of positive beliefs such as optimism > closely related to hope, personal control and self-belief Optimism gives a strong sense of personal control

9. Influencing Beliefs Our beliefs are influenced by ……. –What other people tell us –What we say to ourselves –how we interpret and process this communication

10. A belief in your ability to exercise control over events in your life including your health habits. A belief in your ability to achieve certain behaviours and goals Self Belief

11. Affects on Health Characteristics indicate commitment to healthy goals setting targets dealing effectively with obstacles and set backs. Positive beliefs impact on workings of the cardio – vascular system and immune system and psychological well-being

12. Locus of Control Is > the extent to which we feel we are controlling our destiny External locus of control > the extent to which we believe outside factors are controlling our destiny e.g. bad luck and other factors

13. Self Efficacy Belief in your own ability to control life events linked to positive behaviours including health habits Optimism engenders attitudes – “ I can and I will” > self discipline, concentration, relaxation enjoyment

14. Hippocrates said “The wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings. Let food be your medicine”

15. Daily wellness Benefits of maintaining a healthy diet: Better brain function and internal organs Trouble free digestion Good energy levels Relief from common ailments Improved fitness and stamina Positive mood states Good sex life

16. Diet Optimise digestion Chew food Eat fresh food stuffs Avoid excess animal foods and saturated fats Avoid excessive sugars and processed foods Drink 6 to 8 glasses a day of water

17. Summary Be positive be confident be happy and healthy!