Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is an “uneven condition of the body, a state of total health and not just the absence of illness and disease”. A variety of other definitions have also been used over the years for different medical purposes. Some people may consider health to be a state of well being. In some ways this is true, as well as the fact that health has many factors and components. This is a very important concept, as many of our daily actions are affected by our health.
The World Health Organization’s definition of health states, “In all aspects of life, physical, mental, social and economic, the care for the universal good of all persons constitutes the highest priority”. This statement attempts to define health promotion as something that is instrumental in making the provision of quality public health services possible. This would include access to safe water and adequate sanitation as well as the creation of conditions that would prevent the transmission of diseases and conditions that could negatively affect the human population. Thus, health promotion is viewed by many to be a human right.
As stated by the World Health Organization there are five elements of good health. These elements include a physically fit body, the ability to sustain a standard of living, the ability to care for the self, education and prevention of physical illness, and preventive measures for infectious diseases. All of these elements can be improved through a combination of a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine. A good diet should be balanced in nutrients and calories in order to promote the overall health of an individual.
On the other hand, public health is concerned with the improvement of the quality of life through a system of public health and protection. This system seeks to protect the wellbeing of an individual through a system of preventative medical interventions that attempt to improve the health of the body, mind, and society as a whole. The medical model of mental health attempts to promote the holistic wellbeing of the individual through the identification of risk factors and the development of preventive strategies. In addition to the identification and prevention of threats and the promotion of general wellbeing, the medical model also includes the development and implementation of treatment plans that are specific to a person’s needs and is designed to meet those needs.
Public education is another important element of mental health. By teaching the value of a healthy diet and lifestyle to all, as well as the basics of nutrition, individuals may become more aware of their own bodies and how they feel on a day-to-day basis. Moreover, people may become more likely to exercise regularly as a means of combating obesity and other weight problems, as well as promoting better overall wellbeing. Educating individuals about their mental health as well as their physical health could also promote better participation in wellness programs, such as those designed to combat the spread of diabetes and other medical conditions that can adversely affect the mind. These programs would not only help reduce the number of health problems that are identified by physicians, but could also improve the mental health of patients while they are receiving treatment for these conditions.
With all the advances in technology and medicine that have helped make the lives of many much easier, it is no wonder that some people experience mental health issues that do not improve with time, even if they may be suffering from a serious illness. There are many different factors that can lead to poor mental health. The most important, however, is the belief that being healthy is separate from being well. People need to understand that being ill is just as serious and can cause as much pain as being mentally ill. A balanced life is one that includes a healthy diet and exercise routine. Illness does not need to be an end; it can be the beginning of a new, healthier life.
