Health, according to the World Health Organization, is “a condition of full physical, emotional and social well being and not just the absence of sickness and disease.” Various definitions have been employed over the years for various purposes. They have reflected societal responses to health in terms of knowledge, values and behaviors. However, one of the most influential and predominant views in the field of health and medicine is that health is the result of favorable interactions between the five elements: the body, the mind/body, the environment, and the spirit or mind.
A healthy body, as defined by WHO, is free from diseases, premature death and other illnesses. It also implies well-organized and balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and a peace of mind. A healthy lifestyle may encompass a number of steps, from proper eating and healthy food choices, to regular mental activities and sleep. A well-balanced diet, low in saturated fat, salt and sugar and high in fiber is essential for promoting wellness. A well-organized and balanced lifestyle is comprised of healthy diet and regular physical activity.
The mind/body, which includes both the mind and the physical environment, has an impact on wellness. In particular, good health can be achieved through a good diet and active lifestyle. People live longer when they are well-nourished and physically active. A combination of good health and a good environment can also achieve improved mental health and a reduction in the risk of developing diseases such as cancer and heart disease. A healthy public health requires that all people, regardless of age, disability, or race, have access to quality health services and the opportunity to enjoy a healthy and active life.
A complete physical and mental health means that your mental health is optimum. You can attain this state through a complete mental approach that involves your whole self: your body, mind and spirit. This mental wellness is essential for your well-being because it enables you to live a full life and enjoy experiences that make life meaningful. Mental health services involve evaluating and treating disorders, improving behavior and communication skills, providing support and resources, and promoting well-being.
The concepts of wellness can be applied to a variety of domains. A few examples include physical health, mind/body wellness, and social health. The concepts of wellness can be applied to individuals, groups and organizations. Some of the well-known interventions addressing these seven dimensions of wellness include exercise programs, dietary education, nutritional counseling and therapy, stress management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle counseling. The physical health domain encompasses preventing obesity, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, colon cancer, and mortality; while the mental and emotional health domains encompass adjustment, grief recovery, coping and avoidance, substance use and abuse, and suicidal ideation and suicide attempt. Other domains in the field of mental wellness include anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and developmental disorders.
The practices and strategies that address these seven dimensions of wellness are designed to promote optimal well-being by promoting optimal health and the reduction of the risk of serious illness, disability, and death from chronic illnesses. Mental wellness contributes to overall health and wellness through interventions that address emotional and mental health, family and community service, and practices that promote physical wellness, such as exercise, diet, meditation, and yoga. Mental wellness is an important factor in overall physical wellness and it is important to address the mental aspects of your well-being, as poor mental health can have profound consequences throughout your life.