HEA 120 - Stress, Science and Well-Being

3 credit hours - Three hours lecture weekly; one term.
This course meets the Wellness Requirement.

Explore an integrative (mind, body, emotions and spirit) approach to reducing stress and improving well-being. Examine the physiological and psychological effects of stress and its impact on wellness. Investigate the relationship between stress and disease. Emphasis is placed on exploring and practicing a variety of evidence-based stress reduction strategies. As a final project, students create a comprehensive personal self-care plan to increase the experience of optimal well-being.

Note: Typically offered at MC; fall and spring terms.

Course Outcomes:

Assess and describe the impact of stress on all dimensions of wellness.
Explain the General Adaptation Syndrome and analyze the relationships between chronic stress and various disease states
Describe and explain the biology of stress, to include the physiological and neurological effects of stress on the body and mind.
Identify and examine current theories and research in positive psychology to mitigate stress and improve overall well-being.
Describe emotional responses to stress and apply strategies to increase positive emotions.
Apply theoretical concepts to one’s own experience, including culture, gender, socio-economic status, race and social support, to understand stress and its impact on health.
Identify and apply integrative, evidence-based stress management techniques and coping strategies to manage personal stressors.
Design and develop a personal self-care plan that incorporates coping skills and relaxation techniques to increase the experience of optimal well-being.