The Origins of Health and How it Has Changed Over Time
The Origins of Health and How it Has Changed Over Time
The World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete well-being, free from disease or infirmity. Although these definitions are universally agreed upon, many definitions have been developed over time. Some of these definitions have been adapted for different purposes. Regardless of the definition used, the word “health” is an important concept in our everyday lives. Here are some examples of some of these definitions. Read on to discover the origins of this term and find out how it has changed throughout history.
The World Health Organization (WHO) first defined health in 1948. That definition is largely in line with the current definitions of health. It refers to physical, mental, and social well-being. In addition to being free from disease, health is the ability to adapt to and self-manage challenges. This is a key element of our overall well-being. But how do we define the term? There are several different definitions, and each has their own merit.
The World Health Organization constitution, which came into force on April 7, 1948, defines health as “complete physical, mental, and social well-being.” Clearly, there was a tendency to think of health in terms of diseases, rather than overall well-being. But by defining health in more holistic terms, the WHO has created a better way to improve people’s lives. In its most basic definition, health is “a state of optimal physical, mental, and social well-being”.