Health

Overview

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is a complex concept that includes various dimensions, such as physical health, mental health, and social health. Health is influenced by a wide range of factors, including genetics, environment, lifestyle, and healthcare services.

Physical Health

Physical health refers to the state of the body and its systems. It involves the absence of disease and the fitness of the body to perform daily activities without undue fatigue. Physical health is influenced by various factors, including diet, physical activity, sleep, and avoidance of harmful behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

A person exercising in a park, representing physical health.

A person exercising in a park, representing physical health.

Diet

Diet plays a crucial role in physical health. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. On the other hand, a diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, sugar, and sodium can lead to obesity and related health problems.

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity is another key component of physical health. It can help maintain a healthy weight, strengthen the heart and other muscles, improve lung function, and boost mental health. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.

Sleep

Sleep is essential for physical health. It allows the body to rest and repair itself, supports brain function, and plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to various health problems, including obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and depression.

Mental Health

Mental health refers to a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how people think, feel, and act, and it also helps determine how they handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

A person meditating in a calm environment, representing mental health.

A person meditating in a calm environment, representing mental health.

Mental Disorders

Mental disorders, also called mental illnesses, are health conditions involving changes in thinking, emotion, or behavior (or a combination of these). They are associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work, or family activities. Some common mental disorders include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Mental Health Promotion

Mental health promotion involves actions that improve psychological well-being. This may involve creating an environment that supports mental health. An environment that respects and protects basic civil, political, socio-economic and cultural rights is fundamental to mental health. Without the security and freedom provided by these rights, it is very difficult to maintain a high level of mental health.

Social Health

Social health involves a person's ability to interact with others and thrive in social settings. It includes the ability to form and maintain relationships, to communicate effectively, and to manage conflict. Social health is influenced by a variety of factors, including family relationships, friendships, community involvement, and access to social services.

Social Determinants of Health

The social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age. These circumstances are shaped by the distribution of money, power and resources at global, national and local levels. The social determinants of health are mostly responsible for health inequities - the unfair and avoidable differences in health status seen within and between countries.

See Also

• Preventive healthcare
• Public health
• Healthcare system