Health has always been defined as the absence of disease. However, in today’s modern world, this definition no longer remains adequate. The modern world poses unique challenges that were not present before, and as such, we need to redefine what health is and what it entails.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. This definition represents a more holistic approach to health, focusing on the overall well-being of an individual.
Physical health, of course, remains an essential aspect of health; however, mental and social health is equally important. The modern world is stressful, as we are all constantly bombarded with deadlines, work pressures, and the demand to perform excellently. These pressures can lead to mental fatigue, depression, and other mental health issues. Therefore, it is essential to give equal importance to mental health.
The importance of social health is also crucial in today’s world. Social networking has become a significant issue as we are spending more time in front of our computers and smartphones, making fewer real-life social connections. Social isolation, a prevalent issue in modern society, leads to loneliness, depression, and deteriorating mental health.
Hence, health no longer refers to just the absence of disease or infirmity; rather, it’s a complete state of physical, mental, and social well-being. To achieve this all-encompassing definition of health, we need to prioritise mental and social health and make significant changes to our lifestyles.
The incorporation of healthier daily routines like exercising, sleeping, and healthy food habits is a great way to foster long-lasting physical health. Mindfulness and meditation are beneficial in promoting mental health. For social health, adequate interaction with our friends and family, playing sports, joining classes, and participating in community activities are all significant ways to improve.
In conclusion, health can no longer be viewed solely as the absence of disease; the definition has expanded, and we must adapt to this change. We need to focus on achieving overall well-being to lead a happy and healthy life. It is time to embrace this shift towards a more holistic approach to health in the modern world.