Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is ‘a condition of total health which encompasses all the aspects of life that affect an individual’s physical, emotional, mental and social well being.’ A wide variety of definitions have also been used over time for various purposes. Today, health is a word used by the general public and professionals alike to refer to the quality of life that an individual experiences. It can also be used to indicate the state of a person’s health, as opposed to their ability to cope with their environment or other external factors.
According to the Collins Definition of Good Health, the quality of a person’s physical health is something that can be objectively measured and has an effect on that person’s capacity to live a happy, productive and successful life. The definition notes that ‘a happy and successful life’ is one in which the person meets the requirements of their physical and emotional needs, is able to take part in the community and society in which they live, and has access to the preventative and curative services that are needed. In addition, it must be noted that a happy and successful life does not require an absence of illness, disability or disease. Rather, a healthy definition of good health focuses on the capacity for lifelong physical and mental health, resilience, and the capacity for overcoming challenges. The pursuit of such wellness should include participation in community activities, the integration of exercise into daily life, and an attitude that includes care, compassion, consideration, respect, and empathy for the person’s perspectives, circumstances, and circumstances (both physical and mental).
Another definition of public health has been described as a condition of the mind and spirit that makes people feel good about themselves and increases their ability to participate productively in society. It recognizes that mental health and physical health are intertwined and relies on the individual’s ability to meet their needs through both their mind and body. According to this definition, public health is concerned with the whole person. It acknowledges the fact that there is a link between the state of your mental health and your ability to function properly in physical health. Thus, it is important to address both aspects at the same time.
In addition, it is essential to address mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The three facets are interrelated and work together to ensure that you remain fit and healthy. Illness, disease, and injury can all adversely affect a person’s well-being. In order to prevent illness, disease, and injury from wreaking havoc on your well-being, you need to maintain a good physical environment as well as a good mental environment.
A definition of health that begins by acknowledging the interdependence of illness, disease, and injury with the wellness of the whole person is the first step toward creating a definition of wellness that is more inclusive. This inclusive definition begins with the individual, who must first be healthy in order to be able to participate effectively in society. It goes on to say that people do not become healthy through the exercise they take, the diet they eat, the position they sit, the technology they use, or the cleanliness of their dwelling. Healthy people have positive relationships with all these components. They are not sick but are functioning at their very best in each of these areas. These positive relationships lead to optimal well being.
When you incorporate a definition of health that makes the distinction between disease, infirmity, and wellness, you have begun the process of creating the most inclusive definition of health. A healthier definition is one that includes all three. A healthier definition also recognizes the interdependence of these aspects and is therefore far more inclusive than any simply stating definition. Health must be seen as a state, a quality or a capacity that each and every individual possesses. If all aspects of health are viewed as having a quality then health can be seen as something each person possesses in common.