Health Is More Than the Absence of Disease

The World Health Organisation states that “Health is a state of physical, mental and social well-being. It involves more than just the absence of disease or infirmity.” Health is evidently more than just the absence of disease, as achieving wellness requires an adequate balance of various aspects of the whole person. There are several crucial dimensions of health that need to be taken into consideration before forming the beliefs of the nature of health – physical, social, emotional and spiritually.
Physical health refers to the tangible structure of the body and the five senses which enable us to touch, see, hear, smell and taste the world around us. Though the physical dimension of health is closely linked to the absence of disease, there are many other aspects that can still be attained to improve and strengthen our physical health. With the existence of diseases and illness, devising a good nutrition diet, beneficial physical activities, appropriate weight and adequate rest can still help achieve a good physical health.
One’s ability to interact with other individuals and accepting diversity discusses the social dimension of health. The skill in building healthy relationships results in fostering a positive self-image, as well as improving and strengthening interpersonal social kills. Social settings such as family, friends and the community are some vital environments to improve social health. Poor social health may potentially lead to neurotic illnesses, isolation, stress, etc. Many health professionals have begun to realise the significance of social interaction in a person’s ability to overcome illness. Hence, social health is vital in the overall concept of human health and well-being.
Furthermore, the emotional dimension of health significantly impacts one’s health. One’s capacity to cope, adjust and adapt to challenges and changes is the state of being in control of one’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Such abilities include the ability to