06/01/2026
‘Happiness is not simply a feeling …’
At MSMC clinic, we often talk about the importance of exercise, sleep, nutrition, blood pressure control, stress management, and disease prevention. But one aspect of health that deserves just as much attention is happiness and emotional wellbeing.
Sometimes achieving happiness requires rearranging, reorganizing, and change. Positive change.
As healthcare professionals, we see every day how deeply mental and emotional wellness affect physical health. When people feel connected, valued, hopeful, and at peace, their overall wellbeing often improves. Sleep becomes better. Energy returns. Stress decreases. Relationships strengthen. Resilience grows.
Happiness is not simply a feeling.
In many ways, it is part of good medicine.
Physician and healthcare worker wellness matter too. Those of us in healthcare spend much of our lives caring for others, often while neglecting our own wellbeing. Yet we are reminded constantly that maintaining balance, protecting our peace, and prioritizing emotional health are essential, not only for ourselves, but for the patients and communities we serve.
Personally, this has been an important reminder for me over the past while. I’ve come to appreciate more than ever the value of gratitude, meaningful connection, slowing down, and surrounding yourself with people who bring positivity and calm into your life.
Wellness is not simply the absence of illness.
It is feeling healthy in mind, body, and spirit.
Sometimes the most powerful medicine is:
• meaningful conversation
• laughter
• kindness
• human connection
• hope
• rest
• feeling appreciated
Take care of your physical health.
But also protect your peace, prioritize your wellbeing, and make space for happiness in your life.
Your mind and body will thank you for it.
Making space for happiness,
Dr Todd Young 🌸
