Sania Srivastava
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Dr. Nikhil Parekh
Research Mentor School/College/Department: VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System / NonUM
Program: CG
Session: Session 3 (11:00am – 11:50am)
Authors: Sania Srivastava, Nikhil Parekh
Abstract
Whole Health is the concept of personalized patient-driven care that incorporates complementary and conventional medical care. It is based on research that caring for a person’s core value deepens therapeutic relationships, increases engagement, improves outcomes, and leads to a higher likelihood of successful changes in behavior and more (VHA Office of Patient-Centered Care & Cultural Transformation). And in the Veterans Affairs Health Care System, patients who incorporate Whole Health have demonstrated better health and well-being outcomes. In comparison, WH practices are widely under researched in student populations. The study’s goal is to research current WH practices and subsequently implement programs to guide college students in the US. Through a qualitative survey, students, veterans, and healthcare workers were asked to detail their current WH practices. The results showed University of Michigan students’ interest in Whole Health practices, but with limited application in daily life. Furthermore, students also demonstrated high levels of academic stress. As a solution, the study paired with Arts at Michigan to create ‘Art Stations: Your Healthy Break’ an implementation program that introduces the WH practice of Art Breaks as a form of self care. Working with academic settings like the Shapiro Undergraduate Library, the implementation will help students take productive breaks and first-hand experience the practice of Art as self-care. At the implementation’s conclusion, the project will have created more awareness and familiarize a new generation with WH goals and practices.
