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2.2 What are healthy behaviours?

There are four well-established lifestyle behaviours (tobacco use, excess alcohol consumption, poor diet and lack of exercise), that can contribute to the development of respiratory diseases, cancers, coronary heart disease and strokes and lead to earlier death. Of course these are not unique to Plymouth and these same risk factors and diseases cause premature deaths around the globe.

Thrive Plymouth is seeking to promote healthier behaviours which means:

  • being smoke free
  • drinking alcohol safely (only in moderation)
  • eating healthily
  • being physically active

In Thrive Plymouth, we also recognise the importance of mental wellbeing. We understand wellbeing to be a dynamic state, in which the individual is able to develop their potential, work productively and creatively, build strong and positive relationships with others, and contribute to their community. It is enhanced when an individual is able to fulfil their personal and social goals and achieve a sense of purpose in society. Balanced wellbeing is when individuals generally have the psychological, social and physical resources they need to meet a particular psychological, social and/or physical challenge. When individuals have more challenges than resources, the see-saw dips, along with their wellbeing, and vice-versa.

Image of The challenge of defining wellbeing

Dodge, R., Daly, P., Huyton, J. & Sanders, L. (2012): The challenge of defining wellbeing. International Journal of Wellbeing, 2 (3), 222-235, DOI:10.5502/ijw.v2i3.4