The most accurate definition of health is the one given by the World Health Organization (WHO):
Also, health is a state of complete physical, mental and
social well-being and not just the absence of disease or infirmity.
This definition is widely accepted because it recognizes
that health is not just about the absence of disease, but also around the
presence of positive factors such as physical fitness, mental well-being, and
social connectedness. It also emphasizes that health is a dynamic state, and
that it can fluctuate over time.
Other definitions of health include:
"The ability to adapt and achieve physical, mental and
social challenges." (National Health Service, UK)
"The state of being sound in body, mind, and
spirit." (Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
"A state of complete harmony of the body, mind, and
spirit." (The Chopra Center)
These definitions all capture the essential elements of
health, but the WHO definition is the most comprehensive and widely accepted.
It is a useful definition for both individuals and societies, as it provides a
framework for understanding and promoting health.
Here are some of the key aspects of health that are
highlighted in the WHO definition:
Physical health: This includes the absence of disease, as
well as the presence of factors such as physical fitness, energy levels, and
overall vitality.
Mental health: This includes emotional well-being,
psychological resilience, and the ability to cope with stress.
Social health: This includes the ability to form and
maintain meaningful relationships, participate in social activities, and
contribute to society.
All of these aspects of health are interconnected, and they
all contribute to our overall well-being. When we are healthy, we are better
able to function in our daily lives, enjoy our relationships, and contribute to
our communities.
What are the 5 definitions of health?
Here are 5 definitions of health:
WHO definition: Health is a state of whole physical, mental &
social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
National Health Service (UK) definition: The ability to
adapt and manage physical, mental and social challenges.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary definition: The state of being
sound in body, mind, and spirit.
The Chopra Center definition: A state of complete harmony of
the body, mind, and spirit.
Personal definition: Health is a state of well-being that
allows me to function at my best physically, mentally, and emotionally.
These definitions all capture the essential elements of
health, but they each emphasize different aspects. The WHO definition is the
most comprehensive, but it can be seen as too broad by some people. The NHS
definition is more specific, but it does not address the spiritual dimension of
health. The Merriam-Webster definition is the simplest, but it does not capture
the dynamic nature of health. The Chopra Center definition is the most
holistic, but it may be too idealistic for some people.
The best definition of health is the one that resonates with
you the most. It is important to find a definition that you can use to guide
your own health journey.
Here are some extra factors that can be considered when
defining health:
Culture: Different cultures have different beliefs about
what constitutes health.
Age: Health needs change as we age.
Gender: Men and women have different health concerns.
Individual circumstances: Our individual circumstances, such
as our genetics, lifestyle, and environment, all affect our health.
Health is a complex concept, and there is no single
definition that can capture all of its nuances. However, by understanding the
different dimensions of health, we can better understand our own health and
take steps to improve it.
What is the original definition of health?
The original definition of health comes from the Old English
word "hælth", which means "wholeness, being whole or
sound." This definition reflects the idea that health is not just the nonappearance
of disease, but also the presence of positive factors such as physical fitness,
mental well-being, and social connectedness.
In the 19th century, the definition of health began to shift
to focus more on the absence of disease. This was due in part to the
development of new medical technologies that made it possible to diagnose and
treat diseases more effectively. However, this shift also led to a narrow view
of health that focused on the physical body and neglected the mental and social
dimensions of health.
In the 20th century, there was a growing recognition that health
is a complex concept that cannot be reduced to the absence of disease. The
World Health Organization (WHO) meaning of health, which was adopted in 1948,
reflects this broader view of health:
Also, health is a state of whole physical, mental & social
well-being and not just the nonappearance of disease or infirmity.
The WHO definition of health has been criticized for being
too broad and idealistic. However, it has also been praised for its holistic
approach to health and its emphasis on the social determinants of health.
Today, there is a growing consensus that health is a dynamic state that is influenced by a variety of factors, including our genetics,
lifestyle, environment, and social circumstances. The WHO definition of health
provides a useful framework for understanding and promoting health, but it is
important to remember that there is no single definition of health that can
capture all of its nuances.