Health & Well-Being Institute Focus Areas
Healthy Food Access
Our programs help individuals access healthy, affordable foods.
Health Insurance and Care
Our programs help individuals get access to and support for health care and coverage.
Physical Activity
Our programs help people of all ages to live stronger, healthier lives by providing knowledge, inspiration, and ongoing support.
Mental Well-Being
Our programs teach skills to help individuals manage stress, practice mindfulness and access mental health resources.
Community Health
Our programs connect partners and communities with resources and support to address needs and strengthen communities.
Drug and Alcohol Use Prevention and Recovery
Our programs help individuals, employers, and multi-state partners address substance use disorders and support recovery.
About the Health and Well-Being Institute
We support healthier lives by working with and for the people, communities, and Tribal nations of Wisconsin to build relationships, facilitate learning, and pursue data-informed and culturally-based strategies.
Imagine a Wisconsin where every community thrives, supported by access to the research, resources and programming of the University of Wisconsin. That’s the Wisconsin Idea, embodied in the Health & Well-Being Institute of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.
We work with community partners to catalyze positive change in Wisconsin communities through evidence-informed programs to promote health and well-being. Rooted in both urban and rural communities, we’re working together to help solve the state’s most pressing well-being needs and to ensure that all Wisconsinites have the opportunity to live stronger, healthier lives.
Direct Education
We provide community-based education to increase knowledge, skills, and confidence in health promoting activities.
Policy, Systems, and Environmental Support
We partner with community-based organizations to identify needs, strengths and solutions that go beyond the individual to address organizational and community factors that influence health.
Health Communication Campaigns
We utilize principles of health communications and marketing to share well-being messages with individuals and communities to shift cultural norms and perceptions.
Health and Well-Being Institute Program Areas
Impact
We reach
164k+
Wisconsin individuals each year
Success Stories
Supporting Recovery and Reducing Stigma: The Impact of Recovery Friendly Workplaces
Recovery Friendly Workplaces enhance employee well-being and contribute to overall organizational success, demonstrating the value of investing in recovery-friendly initiatives.
Empowering Communities with Compassionate Support and Practical: Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid is an essential course designed to teach participants how to recognize, understand, and respond to mental health and substance use challenges. It equips individuals with practical skills rooted in evidence-based practices.
Empowering Youth with Mindfulness for Emotional Resilience and Academic Success: Learning to BREATHE
Learning to Breathe continues to empower young learners with essential skills that foster resilience and mental well-being, equipping them for a healthier and more mindful future.
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