APA Dictionary of Psychology

intentional changes in daily habits and routines aimed at improving health, managing chronic conditions, or reducing risk factors for disease. Common strategies include adopting balanced nutrition, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress through mindfulness or counseling, reducing substance use (e.g., tobacco, alcohol, or recreational drugs), improving sleep patterns, and fostering supportive social environments. More broadly, the term can refer to any change of life routine to manage or modify a health problem. For example, someone with insomnia may establish a consistent sleep schedule and limit caffeine or screen time in the evening, while a person working to address substance use may avoid environments associated with prior use and build supportive social networks. These approaches are individualized, inclusive of diverse needs and identities, and often guided by healthcare professionals, counselors, or peer support programs.