Health is an aspect of life that is defined as being complete emotional and physical well-being. It also includes being in a state of balance with the environment and with one’s social surroundings.
People’s health can be affected by genetics and environmental factors. It can also be affected by behavior and lifestyle choices. For example, a person who smokes can suffer from more health problems than someone who doesn’t. Also, a person’s socioeconomic status affects his or her life expectancy. A higher socioeconomic status is associated with more education, higher income, and a better job. However, poorer SES is linked with more stress, unemployment, marital disruption, and lower health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a “resource to support wider society” and a “state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing”. This definition implies that health is the absence of disease. But it also suggests that everyone needs to be treated for any condition.
Despite the progress in medical sciences, new diseases continue to be identified. So, the WHO definition of health is no longer suitable for its purpose. Rather, a more appropriate definition should focus on a person’s ability to adapt and self-manage.
If you are struggling with a chronic disease, you need to explore how you feel about your illness, how your illness relates to the context in which you live, and what treatment options you have. You should also consider the effects of your disease on your mobility and other aspects of your life.
