August is National Wellness Month—but beyond the hashtags and health tips flooding your feed, have you ever stopped to ask: what does “wellness” really mean?
Too often, wellness is marketed as a luxury—something reserved for green smoothies, yoga retreats, and expensive supplements. But true wellness goes much deeper. It’s not just about what you eat or how often you exercise. It’s about creating a life that supports your mind, body, and soul—especially during hard times.
At Integrated Healthcare System (IHCS), we believe wellness should be accessible to everyone. This National Wellness Month, let’s unpack what wellness really looks like—especially for our communities.
What Is National Wellness Month?
National Wellness Month, celebrated every August, is dedicated to promoting self-care, healthy routines, and stress management. It encourages individuals and communities to make small daily changes that can lead to long-term health benefits.
But here’s the thing: wellness is not one-size-fits-all.
At IHCS, we’ve seen firsthand that wellness looks different for someone experiencing homelessness compared to someone in a stable living situation. While one person may be focusing on meal prepping or meditation, another may simply be trying to survive.
That’s why our approach to wellness is rooted in equity and compassion.
Real Wellness Starts with Stability
Before anyone can focus on healthy habits, they need one essential thing: a safe place to call home.
Permanent supportive housing is the foundation of wellness for many of our clients. Without housing, managing medications, attending appointments, or even getting enough rest becomes nearly impossible. That’s why we say:
Housing is healthcare.
Our programs like Bella House, Phoenix Place, and Dignity Village offer more than just shelter—they offer dignity, community, and a chance to rebuild.
5 Dimensions of Wellness That Truly Matter
Wellness is multi-dimensional. At IHCS, we consider these five pillars when we support individuals in our care:
1. Physical Wellness
- Access to nutritious food
- Regular medical care and medications
- Safe living environments
2. Emotional Wellness
- Support groups and case management
- Mental health services
- Trauma-informed care
3. Social Wellness
- Building relationships and community
- Reconnecting with family
- Peer support programs
4. Occupational Wellness
- Job training and workforce programs
- Volunteer opportunities
- Confidence through purpose
5. Spiritual Wellness
- Access to faith-based resources
- Quiet space for reflection or meditation
- Encouraging self-discovery and healing
When you look at wellness through this lens, it’s clear that it’s not just a personal journey—it’s a community effort.
Wellness Isn’t a Trend—It’s a Right
Let’s face it: not everyone has the same starting point. Many individuals we serve have experienced chronic homelessness, trauma, mental illness, and addiction. Expecting them to practice it without support is unrealistic.
That’s why IHCS prioritizes whole-person care. We don’t just treat symptoms—we walk alongside each person as they rebuild their lives.
This August, let’s move beyond the idea of wellness as a trend and start seeing it as a human right—something everyone deserves access to, no matter their story.
How You Can Support Wellness for All
You don’t need to be a healthcare professional to make an impact. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Share our blog and start a conversation about real wellness
- Donate to support our housing programs
- Volunteer your time, skills, or voice
- Advocate for policies that address homelessness and mental health care
Every action counts—especially when it comes from a place of compassion.
Wellness Begins With Us
Wellness isn’t a monthly goal—it’s a lifelong journey. Whether you’re lighting a candle after a long day or helping someone find their first apartment in years, you’re part of that journey.
So this National Wellness Month, let’s redefine what wellness means.
Let’s make it inclusive.
Let’s make it real.
Let’s make it ours.
Want to learn more about our supportive housing programs?
Book an appointment or subscribe to our newsletter to hear stories from our community, updates on our programs, and ways you can help create real wellness for all.
