Erek Mirque
Pronouns: he/him
Research Mentor(s): Dr. Nikhil Parekh
Research Mentor School/College/Department: VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System / NonUM
Program: UROPF
Session: Session 3 (11:00am – 11:50am)
Authors: Erek Mirque, Nikhil Parekh
Abstract
Although specific tenets of the Whole Health model have been researched thoroughly in student, veteran, and healthcare populations, there have been relatively few studies which aim to assess how these groups engage in all aspects of the model*. This study aims to evaluate how knowledgeable these groups are of the components included in the Whole Health model, as well as how frequently and to what extent they take part in activities which promote healthy lifestyles in accordance with the model. The study makes use of a 85-question survey which uses both Likert scale and open response questions in order to collect both qualitative and quantitative data regarding the health choices of the respondents who took the survey. The survey was distributed online via social media outreach concentrated mostly within the U.S. An analysis of the survey responses reveals important information regarding health trends, such as a general lack of meditative knowledge especially among student populations and a demonstrated need for music as a therapeutic tool. These results add complexity to our understanding of how student, veteran, and healthcare worker populations understand healthy lifestyles and how they act to develop one for themselves. *The components of the Whole Health model include: Surroundings, Personal Development, Food & Drink, Recharge, Family, Friends, & Co-workers, Spirit & Soul, Power of the Mind, and Moving the Body. This model was developed by the Veterans Affairs department as a patient-focused, holistic approach to veterans’ health and wellbeing.
