WBCHSE Science of Well Being key terms

A positive overall state of health in which a person functions well physically, mentally, emotionally and socially, rather than merely being free of illness or disease.

The pleasure-centred view of wellness that emphasises positive feelings, comfort, enjoyment and the absence of pain or unpleasant experience in daily life.

The growth-centred view of wellness that emphasises meaning, purpose, personal development and living up to one's genuine potential rather than simple pleasure.

A person's own evaluation of their life, combining frequent positive emotions, infrequent negative emotions and a general judgement of satisfaction with how life is going.

The cognitive judgement a person makes when comparing their actual life circumstances with the standard they personally consider ideal or desirable.

A complete state of physical, mental and social wellness, not simply the absence of disease or infirmity, as described in the widely used WHO definition.

The dimension of wellness concerned with the quality of relationships, sense of belonging, community participation and ability to interact effectively with others.

An eating pattern supplying adequate energy and all essential nutrients in correct proportions from varied foods, matched to a person's age, sex and activity level.

A nutrient needed by the body in large amounts to supply energy or build tissue, namely carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

A vitamin or mineral required only in small quantities, yet essential for growth, immunity, nerve function and many metabolic reactions in the body.

The indigestible carbohydrate component of plant foods that adds bulk to stool, slows sugar absorption and supports digestive health and satiety.

The amount of energy the body uses at complete rest to maintain breathing, circulation, temperature and other vital functions over a given period.

A condition of excessive body fat accumulation that raises the risk of diabetes, heart disease and joint problems, commonly assessed using body mass index.

A screening measure calculated by dividing body weight in kilograms by the square of height in metres, used to classify underweight, normal, overweight and obese ranges.

A condition in which the blood carries too little haemoglobin or too few healthy red cells, causing fatigue and weakness, often linked to iron deficiency.

A state of emotional and psychological wellness in which a person can cope with normal stresses, work productively and contribute to their community.

Negative labelling, stereotyping and social rejection attached to a condition or group, which often discourages people from seeking help for mental health problems.

The capacity to adapt successfully to adversity, trauma or ongoing stress and to recover functioning after difficult experiences.

The physical and psychological response of the body to demands or pressures that are perceived as exceeding a person's ability to cope with them.

Positive, motivating stress experienced in manageable amounts, such as before an examination or performance, which can sharpen focus and improve effort.

A three-stage model of the body's response to prolonged stress, moving through alarm, resistance and finally exhaustion if the stressor continues.

The thoughts and behaviours a person uses to manage internal or external demands seen as taxing, including problem-focused and emotion-focused strategies.

The practice of paying deliberate, non-judgemental attention to present-moment experience, including bodily sensations, thoughts and feelings, without reacting automatically.

A physiological state of lowered heart rate, slower breathing and reduced muscle tension produced by practices such as meditation, deep breathing or progressive relaxation.

A family of mental training practices in which attention or awareness is deliberately focused or opened, typically to calm the mind and reduce stress.

An integrated system of physical postures, breath regulation and mental focus, originating in India, aimed at union of body and mind and overall wellness.

A steady, comfortable physical posture practised in yoga to build strength, flexibility, balance and body awareness while preparing the mind for stillness.

The yogic practice of conscious regulation and extension of the breath through techniques of inhalation, exhalation and retention, used to calm body and mind.

Any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure, including household chores, walking, sport and structured exercise.

The practical help, emotional comfort and information a person receives from family, friends, peers and community networks during times of need.

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person by sensing their perspective, without necessarily agreeing with or adopting their view.

A communication skill in which the listener gives full attention, avoids interruption, and reflects back content and feeling to confirm understanding.

The interpersonal skill of expressing one's needs, opinions and boundaries honestly and respectfully, without being either passive or aggressive toward others.

A process of addressing disagreement through open communication, negotiation and joint problem-solving so that relationships are preserved and needs are met.

The set of abilities to perceive, understand, manage and use emotions in oneself and others to guide thought and effective behaviour.

The capacity to recognise one's own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values and typical reactions, and to understand how these affect behaviour and others.

The ability to monitor and adjust one's emotions, impulses and behaviour in order to pursue goals and respond appropriately to situations.

The highest level in Maslow's hierarchy of needs, describing the drive to realise one's full potential, creativity and personal growth.

Enduring beliefs about what is important and desirable in life, which guide priorities, decisions, judgements and behaviour across situations.

The principles and standards of right and wrong conduct that guide how individuals and groups treat others and make responsible decisions.

The healthy and intentional use of digital devices and online platforms, balancing benefits of technology with protection of attention, sleep, mood and real-world relationships.

A deliberate period of reduced or avoided use of smartphones, social media and other screens to restore attention, sleep and face-to-face connection.

The total duration a person spends using devices with electronic displays, such as phones, computers and televisions, tracked as a measure of digital exposure.

Repeated intentional harm delivered through digital channels such as messages, posts or images, which can damage a victim's mental health and sense of safety.