Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a condition characterized by an optimum condition that is maintained throughout one’s life. Various definitions have also been applied to health throughout time. In common usage, however, health is typically regarded as an objective state where physiological processes are balanced and appropriately directed toward achieving health. Some modern approaches to health offer an individualistic approach by focusing on the prevention and maintenance of health. This form of health management emphasizes preventive care, treatment of diseases, and vulnerability management.
According to recent research, the best way to enhance health is to prevent physical illnesses before they start. Good health is achieved when a person is able to overcome threats to his or her physical well-being, such as exposure to physical hazards, unhealthy environments, and diseases. Failure to achieve good health can result in the accumulation of physical illness, disability, and disease.
Prevention and control of diseases can be achieved through a combination of general practices aimed at building resistance to diseases, healthy eating habits, and appropriate levels of physical activity. A well-balanced diet, consistent with dietary requirements and sufficient exercise, reduces the risk of diseases and enhances well-being. The absence of physical hazards prevents exposure to health risks. Healthy living conditions provide opportunities for people to attain good health.
Maintaining good health requires a commitment to quality health services, comprehensive assessment and screening, early diagnosis and prompt treatment. A person who becomes ill or develops a physical problem is susceptible to diseases and health disorders that affect his or her physical well-being. Illness and disability often occur due to underlying conditions that are difficult to identify. In addition, physical problems are often associated with emotional stress and other non-traditional sources of distress. All these factors lead to an increase in morbidity and mortality rates that directly affect the quality of life and reduce people’s confidence and satisfaction with their lives.
The National Institute of Health (NIH), part of the National Institutes of Health, has established the Clinical Evidence Program to support health education, research, and policy regarding health. For more information on how you can help improve public health, register for a free e-book: “Health Promotion and Public Health: 6 Tips for Better Health Promotion”. This free book offers 12 action steps you can immediately take to help improve your health. It also includes additional resources and contact information for additional information on public health issues, including smoking, stress, exercise, nutrition, vitamin supplements, healthy diets, weight management, and the causes, symptoms, and prevention of diseases and conditions.
There is a growing body of literature focusing on the relationship between physical health and mental health. Two competing theories are emerging to explain the link between the two. The stress theory maintains that people become mentally ill because of the increased stress they encounter in their everyday lives. According to this view, people become ill from too much stress. The physical health theory on the other hand, suggests that the poor health is caused by not having good health practices.