Health and wellness are broad concepts that encompass various
dimensions of well-being, including physical, mental, and social aspects. While
there may not be a single universally agreed-upon definition, reputable health
organizations provide comprehensive perspectives on these terms. Here's a
description with references:
01. World Health Organization (WHO):
- The WHO defines health as "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity" (World Health Organization, 1948).
- Reference: WHO.
(1948). Preamble to the Constitution of the World Health Organization.
Retrieved from WHO Constitution
02.
National Wellness Institute (NWI):
- The NWI describes
wellness as "an active process through which people become aware of,
and make choices toward, a more successful existence" and emphasizes
a holistic approach that includes multiple dimensions of well-being
(National Wellness Institute, n.d.).
- Reference: National
Wellness Institute. (n.d.). The Six Dimensions of Wellness. Retrieved from
National
Wellness Institute
03. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC):
- The CDC defines wellness as "the degree to which one feels positive and enthusiastic about life, has good mental health, has a sense of meaning and purpose, and is engaged in a range of activities that contribute to personal growth and development" (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2012).
- Reference: CDC. (2012). Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL). Retrieved from CDC HRQOL
04. World Economic Forum
(WEF):
- The WEF, in collaboration with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, defines global health and wellness as a "sustainable state of health for individuals and societies in the present and future, across domains and throughout the life course" (World Economic Forum, 2020).
- Reference: World
Economic Forum. (2020). Global Health and Wellness: Definitions,
frameworks and best practices for leaders. Retrieved from WEF
Health and Wellness
These definitions highlight the multifaceted nature of health
and wellness, emphasizing not only the absence of illness but also the presence
of positive well-being across physical, mental, and social dimensions. It's
important to recognize that these concepts evolve and may be interpreted in
various ways by different individuals and organizations.