Building Health Skills

Fitting in Fitness John is carrying a full schedule of advanced courses this semester. He also plays an instrument in the school jazz band and has a part-time job at the grocery store. John wants to add some physical activity to his schedule, but can’t figure out how to fit it in. He asks his good friend Paul for suggestions. Write a conversation in which John explains his situation to Paul. Paul should be supportive and offer possible strategies that can help John add physical activity into his schedule.

Essential Question How do health skills allow me to take responsibility for my own health?

Health Skills Health Skills are specific tools and strategies to maintain, protect, and improve all aspects of your health. Health skills are called life skills because once you’ve developed these skills, you can use them throughout your life to stay healthy.

Health Skills Communication Refusal Conflict Resolution Accessing Information Analyzing Influences Practicing Health Behaviors Stress Management Advocacy Decision Making Goal Setting

Communication Skills Interpersonal communication – the exchange of thoughts, feelings, and beliefs between two or more people. Helps you build strong relationships with others.

Ways to Strengthen your interpersonal communication skills Use “I” messages to express your feelings. Saying “I feel upset when I’m left out of our plans” focuses on your emotions rather than placing blame. Communicate with respect and caring. Keep your voice calm and use a respectful tone when talking to another person. Be an active listener. Pay attention to what the other person is saying. Let him say what he has to say without interrupting. Try to understand the other person’s point of view.

Refusal Skills Refusal skills are communication strategies that can help you say no when you are urged to take part in behaviors that are unsafe or unhealthful, or that go against your values.

Refusal Strategies Say NO in a firm voice. Explain Why. Offer Alternatives. Stand Your Ground Leave if Necessary

Role Playing Find a partner and come up with a role playing scenario that shows a person using proper refusal skills. You scenario must include a character that demonstrates at least three refusal strategies that can help you say no to potentially harmful activities. Be creative and try to think outside the box. You may be called upon to act out your scenario for a grade!!! Example Someone may offer you a cigarette even though you don’t smoke.

Conflict-Resolution Skills Conflict Resolution- the process of ending a conflict through cooperation and problem solving. Skills include: Stepping away from an argument Allowing the conflict to subside Using good interpersonal communication skills Maintaining an attitude or respect for yourself as well as for the other person Compromise Both parties give up something but still gain a desired result

Accessing Information Knowing how to find and evaluate health information Need to determine reliability of the group or individual sharing the information Some valid sources include Health care providers and professionals Valid internet sites, such as those of government agencies and professional health organizations Parents, guardians, and other trusted adults Recently published material written by respected, well-known science and health professionals

Analyzing Influences Understanding what influences you helps you to make more healthful choices Ever stop and think about why you do the things you do? Influences on Your Health Personal Values Personal Beliefs Perceptions Curiosity/Fears Family/Culture Media/Technology Friends/Peers School and Community

Self-Management Skills Taking charge of your own health Two self-management skills Practicing Healthful Behaviors - developing good health habits is important to maintaining your health Managing Stress

Stress The reaction of the body and mind to everyday challenges and demands Normal part of life Too much can cause illnesses Stress management skills- skills that help you reduce and manage stress in your life Exercising Relaxation Managing time efficiently

Stress Management EdPuzzle https://edpuzzle.com/assignments/581ff46ccaa5adee3efd368e /watch

Exit Slip 1. Define the term health skills? 2. What are two interpersonal communication skills that can reduce your health risk? 3. What is advocacy? 4. Why it is important to recognize and analyze the various influences on your behavior? 5. How can advocacy help you with health issues that are important to you?