What is Health? Examining Our Concept of Health.
- rachelnazarko
- Feb 7
- 2 min read
Defining Health is more complicated than it may seem.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." While this definition has been influential and widely accepted, it is not without its critiques. This post will examine the limitations of the WHO's definition and explore alternative definitions of health that provide a more nuanced understanding of well-being.
Limitations of the WHO Definition
Idealistic Nature: The term "complete" suggests an unattainable standard for most individuals. Very few people can claim to be in a state of complete well-being, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and failure.
Neglect of Chronic Conditions: The definition does not adequately address the realities of chronic illnesses that may not completely define a person's health status. Individuals with chronic conditions can still lead fulfilling lives and experience well-being.
Social Determinants of Health: The definition emphasizes individual well-being without considering broader social determinants such as socioeconomic status, environment, and access to healthcare, which significantly impact health outcomes.
Static vs. Dynamic: Health is often viewed as a static state in this definition, whereas it is actually a dynamic process influenced by various factors over time.
Alternative Definitions of Health
To address the limitations of the WHO definition, various scholars and organizations have proposed alternative definitions that emphasize different aspects of health:
Holistic Health: This perspective views health as a balance of physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being, acknowledging the interconnectedness of these dimensions.
Health as a Continuum: Some definitions propose that health exists on a continuum, where individuals may fluctuate between states of wellness and illness, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability.
Functional Health: This definition focuses on an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and roles, suggesting that health can be measured by functionality rather than just the absence of disease.
Community Health: This approach considers the health of communities as a whole, recognizing that collective well-being is influenced by social, economic, and environmental factors.
An article published in the Disability and Health Journal suggests that ‘Health is the dynamic balance of physical, mental, social, and existential well-being in adapting to conditions of life and the environment’ (Krahn, et al. 2021). This definition addresses the criticisms associated with the WHO version and seeks to include a holistic, dynamic, and inclusive perspective.
While the WHO's definition of health has played a crucial role in shaping public health discourse, it is essential to recognize its limitations. By exploring alternative definitions that consider the complexities of health and well-being, we can foster a more inclusive and realistic understanding of what it means to be healthy. Emphasizing a holistic, dynamic, and functional approach to health can lead to better health outcomes and a more supportive environment for individuals facing various health challenges.
Krahn, G.L., Robinson, A., Murray, A.J., Havercamp, M.S. (2021). It's time to reconsider how we define health: Perspective from disability and chronic condition, Disability and Health Journal. Volume 14(4), 101129
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