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By Jessica Wright•Last Updated April 19, 2025

Using the Decision-Making Process to Make Good Choices About Health and Wellness

Introduction: Why Decision-Making Matters in Health and Wellness

Every day, people face choices that affect their health and overall wellness. From deciding what to eat, whether to exercise, or how to address a new medical symptom, each decision can have lasting consequences. Using a structured decision-making process can increase your chances of making choices that support your long-term health, reduce stress, and improve your quality of life. This article explores how you can apply this process to your own health and wellness, and provides step-by-step guidance, real-world examples, and actionable strategies.

Understanding the Decision-Making Process

The decision-making process is a methodical approach that helps individuals evaluate options, consider the consequences, and choose actions that align with their values and goals. Health educators and medical professionals widely recommend this process because it encourages careful thought, informed research, and collaboration with trusted advisors. According to MyHealth Alberta, the best formula for making health decisions is to combine reliable medical facts with your personal values and preferences [1] .

Key Steps in the Decision-Making Process for Health and Wellness

While models may vary, most health decision-making processes include the following steps:

1. Identify the Decision That Needs to Be Made

Begin by clearly stating the health or wellness issue you are facing. For example, you might be considering whether to start a new exercise routine, change your diet, or seek medical advice for a new symptom. Write down the specific decision to focus your efforts and clarify your objectives [1] .

2. Gather Information and Explore Options

Collect reliable information from trusted sources, such as healthcare professionals, academic publications, or reputable health organizations. Avoid relying on single studies or sources with a vested interest in your decision. Consider talking to your doctor, researching through libraries, and using government or major health system websites. For example, if you are considering a new medication, learn about its benefits, risks, side effects, and alternatives [1] .

3. Weigh the Benefits and Risks

List the pros and cons of each option. Ask yourself how each choice aligns with your health goals and values. Consider potential short-term and long-term outcomes. For example, the decision to undergo surgery may offer quick relief but carry risks, while a conservative treatment may take longer but involve fewer complications [2] .

4. Consider Personal Values and Preferences

Your personal circumstances, beliefs, and priorities play a significant role in decision-making. Reflect on what matters most to you, whether it’s minimizing side effects, maintaining independence, or prioritizing cost. Involve family members or support networks if their lives will also be affected by your decision [1] .

5. Make the Decision and Take Action

After evaluating the facts and your values, choose the option that best fits your needs. Communicate your decision clearly to your healthcare provider or support team and make a plan for implementation. For example, if you decide to adopt a new dietary habit, set specific goals and track your progress.

6. Review and Reflect

After taking action, monitor your outcomes and be willing to adjust your plan if needed. Health and wellness are dynamic, and ongoing assessment will help you stay on track or pivot as circumstances change. For example, if you try a new exercise routine but experience discomfort, revisit your options and consult a professional if necessary [2] .

Real-World Example: Applying the Decision-Making Process

Consider a scenario where you are deciding whether to start a medication for high blood pressure. You would:

Identify the need to control your blood pressure.
Gather information on various medications, lifestyle changes, and potential side effects.
Weigh the potential benefits of medication against side effects and your ability to manage lifestyle changes.
Reflect on your preferences, such as avoiding medications if possible, or prioritizing quick results.
Decide with your healthcare provider on the best course of action.
Monitor your blood pressure and side effects, adjusting your plan as needed.

Shared Decision-Making: Working with Professionals

Shared decision-making is a collaborative approach where you and your healthcare provider work together to make choices. This process ensures you understand all available options, including their benefits and risks, so you can make informed decisions that are right for you [3] . If you want to use shared decision-making tools, ask your doctor or health professional for recommendations. If you cannot communicate your wishes (for example, in a medical emergency), you can prepare an advance care plan by writing down your wishes and assigning a trusted decision-maker for future care needs.

Factors That Influence the Decision-Making Process

Many factors can influence how you make health decisions, including:

Mental health: Conditions like anxiety or depression can impact your ability to make choices. If you struggle with indecisiveness or emotional distress, consider seeking support from a mental health provider [4] .
Health literacy: Understanding medical terminology and concepts is essential. If you find information overwhelming, ask your provider to explain it in simpler terms or recommend reliable resources.
Social support: Family, friends, or support groups can help you process information and consider different perspectives.
Time and urgency: Some decisions must be made quickly, while others allow for more reflection and research.

Improving Your Decision-Making Skills

Mastering the decision-making process can help you work through difficult situations and keep the impact of your choices on your health in mind. Health educators teach this skill to empower students and adults alike, so they are better prepared to face high-risk or high-stakes situations and make healthy choices [5] . To improve your decision-making skills:

Practice using a step-by-step approach for both minor and major health choices.
Seek feedback from trusted advisors or professionals when unsure.
Reflect on past decisions to identify what worked and what could be improved.
Stay informed about health and wellness by following reputable organizations and continuing to educate yourself.

Accessing Reliable Health Decision Resources

To find reliable information and support for your health decisions, consider the following approaches:

Speak directly with your primary care provider or relevant specialists.
Use official health system websites, such as your state or provincial health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Visit public libraries or community health centers for educational materials and workshops.
Contact local support organizations or advocacy groups for guidance tailored to your specific needs.

If you are unsure where to start, ask your healthcare provider for recommended resources or search for “patient decision aids” from reputable medical organizations.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

You may encounter obstacles when applying the decision-making process, such as conflicting information, time pressure, or emotional stress. To overcome these challenges:

Clarify your priorities and values before researching options.
Take breaks and revisit the decision if you feel overwhelmed.
Reach out to professionals or support networks for perspective and encouragement.
Document your thoughts and questions to keep track of your decision-making process.

Alternatives and Additional Approaches

While the structured decision-making process is effective for most health and wellness choices, there are situations where quick or expert-driven decisions are necessary-for example, during emergencies. In those cases, trust in trained professionals is critical. For long-term planning, such as advance care directives, consider working with legal and medical advisors to ensure your wishes are clearly documented.

Conclusion: Taking Charge of Your Health Choices

Applying a structured decision-making process empowers you to make choices that are informed, thoughtful, and aligned with your personal values. By taking the time to follow each step, seeking reliable information, and involving trusted professionals and support networks, you can navigate health and wellness decisions with confidence and clarity. As you build your decision-making skills, you’ll be better equipped to handle both everyday choices and major life events, leading to improved well-being and peace of mind.