6. In contrast, movement to the left
of the neutral point indicates
progressively decreasing levels of
health.
7. Travis and Ryan believe it is
possible to be physically ill and at
the same time oriented toward
wellness, or be physically healthy
and at the same time function from
an illness mentality.
9. The models also compares the
traditional treatment model with the
wellness model. The former can help
an individual move from the left only
to the neutral point , where symptoms
of the illness are alleviated.
11. For example, a man who takes
an antihypertensive
medication to reduce blood
pressure and relieve any
associated symptoms moves
to the neutral point.
13. However, wellness-oriented
measures such as reducing
weight or ceasing to
smoking are needed to move
the person beyond the
neutral point to a higher
level of wellness.
14. Note that wellness
intervention can be
initiated at any point on
the continuum. Thus, the
wellness model and the
treatment model can work
together.