Charlie cardinal sleeping

The Nine Dimensions of Wellness

Originating at The Ohio State University, the Nine Dimensions of Wellness are evidence-based tactics for optimizing health and overall well-being. Health Promotion and Advocacy recognizes physical, emotional, cultural, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, social, and spiritual wellness and that each play a vital role in over health and well-being.

A culturally well person is aware of their own cultural background, as well as the diversity and richness present in other cultural backgrounds. Cultural wellness indicates understanding, awareness, and intrinsic respect for all aspects of diversity. 

The financially well person is fully aware of financial state and budgets, saves, and manages finances to achieve realistic goals. Financial wellness includes setting aside time to evaluate finances, planning for fixed and variable expenses, and finding stress relief outlets and gratitude for things that do not cost money.

  • Cardinal Central: Located in the L.A. Pittenger Student Center, Cardinal Central is the one stop shop for help pertaining to all things financial. Students and their families will be supported with business processes such as financial aid, registration, bill pay, and 21st Century Scholarsprograms and services.  
  • Financial Aid and Scholarships: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly referred to as the FAFSA, is the key to determining whether you are eligible for federal, state, and institutional financial aid such as grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. FAFSA must be completed each year.
  • On-Campus Student Employment: Explore flexible and accommodating on-campus student employment to help you pay for classes, gain valuable major-related experience, and build connections without leaving campus! Other career resources such as the Indiana Connection Lounge, Cardinal Career Fair, and Career-Ready Pathways can be found by exploring Career Center services. 
  • Basic Needs Hub: Resources for students experiencing basic needs insecurity including food insecurity, housing insecurity, and financial emergencies.
  • Veterans Affairs: Educational benefits for veterans, guardsmen, and family members through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the State of Indiana.
  • VITA Free Tax Preparation: Need help filing your state and federal taxes? IRS-certified accounting students offer tax preparation and e-filing to students, employees, and families of Ball State University, Muncie Community Schools and other Delaware County taxpayers who meet IRS guidelines

The professionally well person has personal satisfaction and enrichment in one’s life through work, seeking opportunities to grow professionally and to be fulfilled in the work you do; while preparing and making use of your gifts, skills, and talents in order to gain purpose, happiness, and enrichment in your life.