What is the workbook?Success at work requires a level of stamina, energy, and concentration that can be challenging to sustain without attention to daily wellness habits and routines. Physical Wellness for Work offers manageable activities to augment health and wellness. Its underlying philosophy is that even small changes in daily habits can result in increased energy and health for a better and more satisfying workday.
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Who can use it? |
We created the workbook for people with mental health or substance use conditions, but it can be helpful for anyone. Too many people are not working, or are not working in jobs that are satisfying or stimulating, because they have physical health issues. Certain health issues are especially common for people with mental health conditions, such as high blood pressure, breathing problems, diabetes, and obesity. Any of these can make it hard to concentrate or have the energy to get through a workday. These problems get in the way of success on the job and can reduce one’s overall quality of life.
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How does it work? |
Physical wellness habits that help in the quest to get and keep jobs include adequate sleep and rest, regular physical activity, stress management, relaxation, and healthy eating. Getting and staying physically well also means going to the doctor, preventing illnesses, and self-managing medical conditions. These daily habits are easier to sustain when people understand their strengths, resources, and areas for improvement.
The workbook opens with a self-assessment of physical health and a listing of one’s typical activities throughout the day. Workbook users also learn the definition of habits and routines, and assess how they impact everyday life. Next, users work through five dimensions of physical wellness, in order to identify personal strengths and areas for improvement, along with specific goals to develop or improve healthy habits. These dimensions are:
The workbook also includes information, tips, and suggestions to develop new habits and routines to increase chances of getting and keeping a job. Users complete a chart that summarizes their physical wellness strengths to build upon. They also record the habits and routines they would like to develop or improve to cultivate success at work or while looking for work. This exercise also asks them to consider the resources they have or need to develop new healthy habits. The workbook is designed for completion on one’s own or with the help of a peer or other supporter. People enrolled in supported employment programs can request help from their Employment Specialists when filling it out. People often share their ideas and plans with co-workers, family, and friends. People also use our workbook in small group settings to learn together about healthier habits for work and to set related goals. |
What resources are needed? |
A computer and printer are required to download and print the workbook.
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What experience is needed? |
The workbook is self-paced. No experience is required to use it.
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Preparing to use the workbook |
Most people who use the workbook say it reminds them of what they are already doing, not just the things they want to strengthen, change, or improve.
Users choose the ideas that make the most sense for them personally. It is a self-directed process. Making one or two small changes at a time is more likely to result in success. We encourage people to periodically work through the activities in the workbook to make updates. We recommend that users review any changes they make in their plans/goals with their supporters and providers, including Employment Specialists. |
Podcast length: 5 minutes
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A free webinar on implementing Physical Wellness for Work (20 minutes)
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