When it comes to health, there are a wide variety of approaches and definitions. The present digital environment allows multiple categories and understandings to coexist simultaneously, without hierarchy and without precedence. This syncreticity is sometimes referred to as ‘digital anachronism’ and challenges the traditional western learning system where knowledge is accumulated and recognised as ‘precedessor’ to current, updated knowledge. Consequently, it is important that people seeking information about health are aware of the range of different approaches and definitions to navigate this online space appropriately (Department of Health 2021).
The most commonly used definition of health was set out by the World Health Organization at its founding in 1948. It states that “health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
The WHO’s definition is an important starting point for understanding what health actually means to the individual. However, this definition has limitations. For example, it doesn’t take into account the fact that different individuals experience health differently. Some of this difference is due to differences in their exposure to risk factors, but the overall health outcomes for a group can also be influenced by the circumstances within which they grow, live, work and age – these are known as health determinants (see glossary).
A further problem with the WHO definition is that it only applies to people who are healthy – those with no apparent medical problems. This fails to recognise that some people’s health may be compromised, but that they are still able to participate fully in society and lead full and active lives.
Some people’s definitions of health are rooted in their personal values and beliefs. These can be influenced by religious and cultural beliefs, as well as their views about what constitutes a good life.
Other definitions of health are more practical and based on an individual’s ability to function in their daily life. This includes the capacity to adapt to changing circumstances. For example, if someone who lives at sea level decides to move to the mountains and experiences lower levels of oxygen in the air, they may suffer from shortness of breath until their red blood cell count adjusts.
Regardless of how health is defined, it is important to remember why we are making changes to our lifestyles in order to improve our health. This can help us to stay motivated when the going gets tough and to refocus our efforts if we slip up. BJ Fogg, author of Tiny Habits, focuses on small changes that will gradually move us towards our health goals.
The most common definitions of health include the idea that it is a holistic phenomenon and an aspect of living that is interwoven with all aspects of an individual’s life. This concept of wholeness can be applied to family life, working life and community life. Similarly, the concept of pragmatism recognises that health is a relative phenomenon and a context-specific issue.