Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is ‘a state of full physical, emotional and social well being and not just the absence of illness and disease.’ A number of definitions have also been used over the years. For some it is about being fit and healthy. Other people define health as looking after yourself, being tolerant of others and the world in general. There is a great deal of difference between the two.
People are judged by their health status more than any other attribute, because it is directly connected with the quality of life that they enjoy. It also reflects the way they perceive and assess risk factors, and how they cope with stress. When health conditions are poor, the quality of life is lower and vice versa.
Many people are now focused on maintaining good health through maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, regulating substance intake, following a balanced diet and consuming less fat, sugar and salt. This definition of public health emphasizes prevention rather than cure, and it aims to keep the condition of the body in good condition throughout life. The methods for managing disease are also varied and innovative. For example, there are an increasing awareness and understanding of the links between diet, lifestyle and diseases.
Prevention is defined as an ongoing process of controlling or avoiding illness by early detection, appropriate treatment and care. Management is focused on reducing the risk of illness and improving the symptoms when illness strikes. Illness is defined as any physical impairment that interferes with the ability to function normally. The absence of any disease is considered to be a successful definition of health.
Wellness is a well-being approach that is based on the known causes and risk factors for illnesses. A well-being approach to illness begins with a positive view of the self and an attitude of commitment to maintaining wellness. A well-being approach also includes stress management strategies and opportunities to gain support. It also involves promoting healthy relationships among family, friends and colleagues.
Health experts are not sure if there are really any true solutions to health issues or if we are just looking at false solutions. Some researchers see that there are indeed solutions to health issues in the sense that they help prevent illness and manage health issues better. For example, psychological counseling is a form of prevention therapy that has been proven effective. Counseling helps individuals deal with emotional stress and offers them techniques to improve their coping skills when facing health issues. In the absence of counseling, there are a number of support groups that help individuals deal with common health issues such as smoking, depression and eating disorders.