Health is a condition of mental, physical and social well being in which infirmity and disease are absent. Various definitions have also been used over the years for various purposes. However, the best definition has to be the one which encompasses all the three: health is the absence of ill health, sickness and disease. It is an ongoing state which requires constant attention and maintenance.
There are many contributing factors to poor health. These include genetic, physiological, and behavioral conditions. Some of these may also be linked to socioeconomic status, diet, lifestyle choices, and environmental conditions. Poor health also has much to do with one’s capacity for self-care.
Mental health can be categorized into two types: psychological disorders and bodily disorders. The two go hand in hand. A person who suffers from some form of mental disorder or illness is likely to be suffering from some type of bodily illness as well. There are three primary categories of mental illnesses: schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and major depression. Schizophrenia and post traumatic stress disorder usually develop together, while major depression is likely to develop alone.
A good measure of a person’s overall health would include their physical health as well-being. It would be impossible to assess someone’s health by only relying on their mental health records. There are several ways to gauge one’s physical health. Some of these include their weight, blood pressure, cholesterol level, and respiratory rate.
Since both major depression and major heart disease are associated with poor health, it is important to keep in mind that both should be treated separately. Major depression can lead to physical illness such as diabetes, fatigue, and sleep disorders. Heart disease can lead to high blood pressure, clogged arteries, and other physical ailments. When these illnesses are present, it is always best to consult with a physician for treatment and guidance.
In addition to keeping mental health records, it is also important to maintain a daily journal to track daily changes and improvements in a person’s mental and physical health status. If you feel that you are under an extreme amount of stress, try to take some time out each day to relax and clear your mind. It is also a good idea to start getting regular exercise and to reduce the amount of your stress through activities like yoga and meditation. If you find that you are struggling with any type of mental illness, you will be able to use a combination of personal health care and medications to treat it.