Dimensions You must have noticed that the definition of health includes various dimensions–social, mental and physical. Let us briefly deal with all three dimensions before we discuss physical health in greater detail. Social health: It refers to health of individuals and of a society. When we are concerned with society, it refers to a society in which there is equal opportunity and access for all citizens to the goods and services essential for good health.
When we refer to individuals, we refer to each person’s well-being – how well the individual gets along with other people and with social institutions. This includes our social skills and the ability to function as a member of the society. When we are faced with problems and stress, social support helps us to cope with them and solve the problems facing us. Social support measures contribute to positive adjustment in children and adults, and encourages personal growth.
Emphasis on social health is gaining importance as scientific studies have shown that persons who are socially well adjusted, tend to live longer and recover faster from disease. A few social determinants of health are: – Employment status – Safety in workplaces – Access to health services – Cultural/religious beliefs, taboos and value systems – Socio-economic and environmental conditions Mental health: This refers to emotional and psychological well-being. An individual who experiences a sense of well-being can utilise his/her cognitive and emotional capabilities, function well in society and meet the ordinary demands of daily life. The box below lists the indicators of mental health.
A person who has positive mental health– • feels that he/she is capable and competent. • can handle normal levels of stress he/she faces in daily life. • has satisfying relationships. • can lead an independent life.
• if faced with any mental or emotional stress or events, he/she can cope with them and recover from them. • does not fear things. • does not feel defeated or depressed for unusually long periods of time when small difficulties/problems are encountered. It is the aim of every health professional (persons who deal with various aspects of health) to promote good health; in other words, to promote maintenance of well-being or wellness, quality of life.
Physical health: This aspect of health encompasses physical fitness and functioning of the body. A physically healthy person is able to undertake normal activities, does not feel unusually fatigued and has adequate resistance to infection and disease.