Understanding The Science Of Wellness

Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is “the state of full physical, emotional and social well being and not just the absence of illness and infirmity.” Over time various definitions have also been applied to health. In the United States, wellness has increasingly been associated with an improved quality of life. An essential part of the definition of health is the need for people to be in good nutritional condition and to remain active and well-groomed. In other words, the ability to thrive has become more important than the absence of illness or discomfort.

Health promotion and management is the science of identifying, describing and implementing strategies for achieving this state of well-being. The promotion of health is achieved through a combination of education, research and practice. Early identification and knowledge about the physical and mental health of the individual is fundamental to the process of health promotion and the management of health related issues. Community organizations such as sickness stigma programs, supported healthy diet programs, mental health support networks, family counseling and home health care all play a vital role in this area.

The science of wellness includes learning about the characteristics and processes of illness, managing potential risk factors, understanding motivation and support networks, developing a good health habits program, maintaining consistent and continuing maintenance of these behaviors, and adopting a lifestyle that promotes wellness. Health promotion and management also include evaluating current health outcomes and the future outlook for the individual. This will allow organizations to prepare for, cope with, and hopefully successfully recover from any potential adverse effects of any health issue. Prevention of illness and disease through a well-rounded diet, exercise, stress management, and a healthy environment is an integral aspect of any wellness program. Prevention also means that the path to good health is not determined by a medical examination, but by the consistent application of knowledge and skills learned throughout the individual’s life. It also recognizes that the control of risk is in the individual; therefore, prevention is better than cure.