The Role of General/Family Medicine in Promoting Wellness in Contemporary Society

Snežana Knežević, Tamara Gajić, Dragan Vukolić

Keywords: general medicine, family medicine, wellness, well-being, lifestyle

Review:

In the modern era, where the prevalence of chronic diseases is on the rise, promoting wellness has become a crucial aspect of healthcare. General/family medicine plays a pivotal role in this endeavor, as it focuses not only on the treatment of disease but also on the promotion of overall well-being. It encompasses not only the prevention and management of illness but also the promotion of healthy lifestyle behaviors. General/family practitioners can engage patients in wellness activities, such as physical activity, healthy eating, and mindfulness practices, to help them maintain optimal health. They can also provide education on the importance of sleep hygiene, social connections, and self-care strategies. By addressing these lifestyle factors, general/family practitioners can help prevent chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. In addition to individual interventions, general/family practitioners can also play a role in promoting wellness at the community level. They can advocate for policies that support healthy behaviors, such as safe spaces for physical activity and access to healthy food options. They can also participate in community-based health initiatives and collaborate with other stakeholders to create a culture of wellness. Incorporating technology in healthcare, such as telemedicine and mobile health applications, can enhance access to wellness resources and support. For example, mobile health applications can provide patients with tools to track their physical activity, nutrition, and practice mindfulness, and mental health services and counseling. The role of general/family practitioners in promoting a lifestyle centered around wellness in contemporary society is crucial. By addressing lifestyle factors and promoting healthy behaviors, general/family practitioners can help improve overall well-being. A multidisciplinary approach that involves collaboration with other stakeholders, policy advocacy, and the incorporation of technology in healthcare is necessary to create a culture of wellness that supports the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

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