The Evolution of the Wellness Concept
Understanding who created the 8 dimensions of wellness requires looking at its historical development. The idea of holistic wellness, considering the whole person, gained traction in the mid-20th century. Dr. Halbert Dunn's 1959 concept of “High-Level Wellness” was an early influence, defining wellness as "an integrated method of functioning which is oriented toward maximizing the potential of which the individual is capable".
Dr. Bill Hettler's Six-Dimensional Model
A significant precursor to the current model was the six-dimensional model created by Dr. Bill Hettler in 1976. Hettler, a co-founder of the National Wellness Institute, highlighted the interdependence of intellectual, physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and occupational wellness. This model, initially for college students, broadened the understanding of wellness beyond just physical health.
Dr. Peggy Swarbrick's Expansion and Refinement
Dr. Peggy Swarbrick is largely credited with developing the eight-dimensional framework widely used today. Her work, particularly in psychiatric rehabilitation, led her to expand Hettler's model by adding financial and environmental wellness.
The Eight Dimensions of Wellness Defined
The eight dimensions, often promoted with the support of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), include: emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual wellness.
SAMHSA's Role in Popularization
SAMHSA played a key role in the widespread adoption of the eight-dimensional model through its Wellness Initiative. Promoting the framework as a way to improve the lives of individuals, especially those with behavioral health conditions, SAMHSA helped establish the model as a national vision for behavioral health. They offer resources to help people understand and apply the model. SAMHSA provides educational materials on wellness {Link: SAMHSA Library https://library.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/sma16-4953.pdf}.
Comparing Wellness Models
Comparing Hettler's six-dimensional model and the eight-dimensional model highlights the additions:
| Hettler's Six Dimensions | Swarbrick/SAMHSA's Eight Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Emotional | Emotional |
| Physical | Physical |
| Intellectual | Intellectual |
| Occupational | Occupational |
| Social | Social |
| Spiritual | Spiritual |
| N/A | Financial |
| N/A | Environmental |
The inclusion of financial and environmental dimensions in the eight-dimensional model addresses modern challenges and the impact of surroundings on well-being.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Journey
The eight dimensions of wellness model is a result of contributions from multiple individuals and organizations. Dr. Peggy Swarbrick is recognized for the final eight-dimensional framework, building on the work of predecessors like Dr. Bill Hettler. SAMHSA's support further solidified the model's influence. The model continues to promote a holistic and integrated approach to well-being.
