A patient exercising with a physio

Introduction to Lifestyle Medicine

Micro-credential
Positive health

Course details

Diseases of lifestyle are the leading causes of death in the modern world. According to the World Health Organisation, heart and lung diseases, certain cancers and type 1 diabetes are the world’s largest killers, accounting for an estimated 38 million deaths annually, with 16 million of these being premature.

Lifestyle factors are heavily implicated in all these diseases; individuals can do a lot to prevent the development of such conditions. Research has increasingly focused on the role of psychological and behavioural factors in lifestyle-related diseases and has provided new opportunities for understanding and intervention in such conditions. 

Many non-healthcare professionals including psychotherapists, counsellors, educators, coaches and guidance counsellors are encountering increasing pressure to meet the needs of clients and students in relation to their physical health and lifestyle practices. Evidence from the scientific literature supports the fact that improving lifestyle related to sleep, physical activity, eating more healthy whole food, avoiding alcohol and tobacco and cultivating positive relationships leads to enhanced mental health. 

Currently, the majority of non-healthcare professionals are not trained in health sciences and therefore lack the knowledge to support their clients in terms of recommending best practices related to a healthy lifestyle. 

Module aims

The aims of this online module are to provide participants with an introduction to the pillars of lifestyle medicine. Participants will acquire a basic understanding of the six pillars, as well as best-practice guidelines and recommendations from trusted organisations such as the World Health Organisation. 

Each topic has a series of required readings that will assist participants in their preparation and understanding of the central issues for each topic. In addition to the lecture notes, a six-week podcast series, readings and journal articles provide the academic content of the topic. 

  • Assessment mode: Continuous assessment
  • Duration: 10 weeks
  • Delivery: Online

On successful completion of this module, participants will be able to:

  1. Describe and discuss the foundational epidemiology of the chronic diseases of the modern era with particular reference to lifestyle medicine.
  2. Examine and reflect on the six pillars of lifestyle medicine and their role in sustaining health and preventing the development of chronic diseases.
  3. Identify and discuss the basic theories of behaviour change science and develop personalised lifestyle actions plan for themselves and others.
  4. Describe and discuss the role of positive psychology in health and its association with lifestyle medicine.
  5. Access trusted sources on lifestyle medicine such as the World Health Organization and the American College of Lifestyle Medicine.
Activity Hours
Lectures (live and asynchronous) 20
Course work preparation 40
Independent learning time 145
Tutor-supported online learning 20
Assessment 25
Total 250

Asynchronous class component

It is expected that participants view all pre-recorded lectures and podcasts. Participants are expected to engage in group discussions online as part of the learning process.

The following topic areas will be covered:

Week 1: Introduction to Lifestyle Medicine

  • Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) that include heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, lung disease etc., as the greatest causes of premature deaths
  • Lifestyle and NCDs
  • The blue zones example
  • Definition and principles of lifestyle medicine
  • Accessing evidence-based approaches from trusted sources

Week 2: Making a Sustainable Healthy Habit

  • Basic theories of behaviour change science (health belief model, transtheoretical model/stages of change, social cognitive theory, social ecological model)
  • Behaviour change plans incorporating the habit loop and managing cravings
  • Behaviour change checklist
  • Developing a personalised lifestyle action plan for better health

Week 3: Nutrition and Healthy Eating

  • Blue zone eating in your region
  • The whole-food plant-based diet
  • Practical tips for healthier eating

Week 4: Physical Activity and Exercise

  • Benefits of regular physical activity and international guidelines
  • Types of exercise and their role
  • Incorporating exercise into daily life

Week 5: Stress Management

  • Understanding stress and its impact on health
  • Stress reduction techniques
  • Meditation, relaxation and grounding exercises

Week 6: Sleep and its Importance

  • Sleep hygiene and good sleep practices
  • Addressing common sleep issues
  • Improving sleep quality

Week 7: Tobacco and Alcohol

  • Health risks of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
  • The impact of vaping on health
  • Strategies for quitting smoking
  • Resources for support

Week 8: Positive Psychology and Lifestyle Medicine – Toward Thriving and Greater Well-being

  • An introduction to positive psychology
  • Positive psychology interventions and well-being
  • The association between positive psychology and lifestyle medicine

Week 9: The Importance of Relationships and Social Connections

  • Social connections and health; the impact of loneliness
  • Positive emotions, engagement and meaning in relationships
  • Strategies for cultivating positive relationships and social connections

Week 10: Putting it All Together – Lifestyle Action Plan

  • Reflecting on your personalised lifestyle action plan
  • Goal setting and tracking progress
  • Resources for ongoing support
Method Type of assessment
(continuous/terminal)		 Weighting
Weekly quizzes or reflections Continuous 100

We understand that workload can be a concern for students, but we want to reassure you that we have your best interests at heart.

Our courses are designed in line with the guidelines set by the Higher Education Authority (HEA). A typical 10-credit module would require approximately 200-250 hours of your time. This includes attending engaging lectures, productive tutorials, independent study and completing thought-provoking assignments.

You'll find that many of the modules in our programmes are structured around 10 credits each, offering you a balanced and comprehensive learning experience. However, it's worth mentioning that the final module in year two of our MSc is worth 20 credits, tailored to enrich your year two portfolio.

We understand that each module is unique, and the workload might vary depending on the specific nature and requirements. Some modules may require more attention and effort, while others might be more approachable.

Our faculty is dedicated to guiding you through your academic journey, ensuring that you have the support you need to succeed. When you join the programme you will have dedicated programme coordinators and programme directors to answer any questions or concerns along the way.

Remember the issues you may face while on the programme are most likely ones we have dealt with before so please feel free to approach us in your time of need. We are here to ensure that your educational journey is the most enjoyable and fulfilling experience possible.

Rest assured, we value your time and dedication, and we encourage you to manage your time effectively. Remember, your passion for learning, combined with our expert guidance, will pave the way for your academic excellence.