Understanding the Evolving Concept of Health
The traditional view of health, famously put forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948, describes it as a state of “complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. While influential, this definition is often critiqued for being an aspirational ideal, leading to the idea that most people are 'unhealthy' for much of their lives. In contrast, contemporary interpretations suggest a more fluid, personal, and holistic understanding. For many people, determining what is the own definition of health involves recognizing that wellness exists on a continuous spectrum and is intimately tied to one's unique circumstances, values, and experiences.
The Dimensions of Personal Health
A truly personal definition of health incorporates multiple dimensions that contribute to overall wellness. Focusing solely on one area, such as physical fitness, ignores the interconnected nature of human well-being. A holistic perspective considers the following key areas:
- Physical Health: This encompasses the body's functional and metabolic efficiency, including adequate sleep, regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and the ability to recover from injury or illness. {Link: ScienceDirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1936657421000753}.
- Mental and Emotional Health: {Link: ScienceDirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1936657421000753}.
- Social Well-being: {Link: ScienceDirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1936657421000753}.
- Existential or Spiritual Well-being: {Link: ScienceDirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1936657421000753}.
The Role of Adaptation and Resilience
A key aspect of modern health understanding is adaptation. {Link: ScienceDirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1936657421000753}. This acknowledges that individuals with chronic conditions can still be considered healthy if they adapt effectively.
- Internal Stressors: Managing conditions like disease, injury, or genetic predispositions.
- External Stressors: Factors like job loss, financial insecurity, or societal issues. Health involves having resources and support to adapt to these challenges.
Defining Your Own Health Journey
Defining health is a personal process reflecting priorities and circumstances. It's about striving for balance and personal potential. This requires self-reflection and assessment of what makes you feel well-adjusted and fulfilled. Wellness emphasizes individual responsibility for continuous self-evaluation.
Comparing Traditional vs. Modern Definitions of Health
| Aspect | Traditional (1948 WHO) Definition | Modern Holistic/Personal Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Core Concept | A static, aspirational state of 'complete' well-being. | A dynamic process of balance and adaptation. |
| Focus | Absence of disease and a perfect state. | Capacity to adapt, manage, and thrive despite challenges. |
| Measurement | Often difficult and critiqued as utopian. | More subjective, based on self-perception, function, and resilience. |
| Inclusivity | Potentially excludes those with chronic conditions or disabilities. | {Link: ScienceDirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1936657421000753}. |
| Key Elements | Physical, mental, and social well-being. | Adds spiritual/existential well-being and emphasizes the capacity to adapt. |
| Responsibility | Emphasis on the health sector's role to provide care. | Shared responsibility between the individual and society to create supportive environments. |
The Broader Social and Environmental Context
Your personal health definition is shaped by social determinants like economic stability, education, safety, and healthcare access. A healthy lifestyle is more achievable with a supportive environment and equitable social conditions. Public health addresses these systemic issues to support everyone's health.
Conclusion: A Personal Journey of Discovery
Ultimately, what is the own definition of health is a personal question. It's a journey acknowledging health as a multifaceted, dynamic resource. Embracing a holistic perspective—including physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being, and adaptability—empowers you in your wellness. Focusing on balance, resilience, and purpose cultivates a meaningful and attainable sense of health. {Link: MedlinePlus https://medlineplus.gov/definitions/generalhealthdefinitions.html}.
