Health is the state of physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. It is the ability to realize aspirations and satisfy needs in a changing environment, including the capacity for self-determination and personal development.
It is difficult to define or measure because it entails an individual’s perception of his situation and the extent to which he feels his life is meaningful. It encompasses a sense of meaning, purpose and dignity and a feeling of being in control of one’s life. It also includes a feeling of accomplishment and fulfillment.
Historically, health has been defined as the ability to avoid illness and disease. This has led to a focus on medical treatment and the creation of large biomedical research facilities. However, there is increasing concern that the determinants of health lie outside the sphere of medicine. This new perspective is based on the idea that people’s health is affected by their environment and lifestyle and that health care systems must take into account this context.
The concept of health is broad and includes factors such as a person’s economic status, education and level of activity. It also considers whether a person is in contact with his community and culture. Moreover, it takes into account the quality of relationships within the family and in society at large. Some of these determinants are uncontrollable, such as genetic makeup, while others, such as access to healthy food and exercise, can be changed by an individual.
It is essential that everyone is involved in the promotion of their own health. A person can begin by eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep and engaging in regular exercise. Moreover, it is important to surround himself with positive people and to have fun. This will help to reduce stress levels and make it easier to stick to a regular fitness routine.
The determinants of health are complex and interrelated. In order to make changes in these areas, it is crucial to identify the causes of poor health and develop strategies to promote good health. This approach can involve the biomedical sciences, sociology and psychology. It can also incorporate aspects of the natural, built and social environments and include such issues as economic inequality and poverty. By taking a more holistic approach to health, we can ensure that all people are able to live happy and fulfilling lives.