World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948 defined health with a phrase that modern authorities still apply. “Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” In 1986, the WHO made further clarifications: “A resource for everyday life, not the objective of living. Health is a positive concept emphasizing social and personal resources, as well as physical capacities.” This means that health is a resource to support an individual’s function in wider society, rather than an end in itself. A healthful lifestyle provides the means to lead a full life with meaning and purpose. It is found that in The Lancet Trusted Source, researchers in 2009, defined health as the ability of a body to adapt to new threats and infirmities. They base this definition on the idea that the past few decades have seen modern science take significant strides in the awareness of diseases by understanding how they work, discovering new ways to slow or stop them, and acknowledging that an absence of pathology may not be possible. The main types of health are given as:
(i) Mental And Physical Healths are probably the two most frequently discussed types of health.
(ii) Spiritual, Emotional, And Financial Health also contribute to overall health. Scientists have linked these to lower stress levels and improved mental and physical well-being.
(iii) Physical health: A person who has good physical health is likely to have bodily functions and processes working at their peak. This is not only due not only to an absence of disease. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest all contribute to good health. Physical well-being involves pursuing a healthful lifestyle to decrease the risk of disease. Maintaining physical fitness, for example, can protect and develop the endurance of a person’s breathing and heart function, muscular strength, flexibility, and body composition. Good physical health can work in tandem with mental health to improve a person’s overall quality of life.
(iv) Mental Health: According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Trusted Source mental health refers to a person’s emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Mental health is as important as physical health as part of a full, active lifestyle. Good mental health is not only categorized by the absence of depression, anxiety, or another disorder. It also depends on a person’s ability to enjoy life in all situations.
All types of health are linked, and people should aim for overall well-being and balance as the keys to good health. Good health depends on a wide range of factors such as Genetic factors and Environmental factors. It is observed that access to healthcare as well as social factors plays a crucial role in health. According to the Seven Countries Study, researchers studied people in select European countries and found that those who ate a healthful diet had a lower 20-year death rate. The best way to maintain health is to preserve it through a healthful lifestyle rather than waiting until sickness or infirmity to address health problems. People use the name wellness to describe this continuous state of enhanced well-being. WHO define wellness as “Wellness is the optimal state of health of individuals and groups. There are two focal concerns: the realization of the fullest potential of an individual physically, psychologically, socially, spiritually, and economically, and the fulfilment of one’s roles and expectations in the family, community, place of worship, and other settings.” Wellness promotes active awareness of and participating in measures that preserve health, both as an individual and in the community. Maintaining wellness and optimal health is a lifelong, daily commitment. To attain wellnes includes eating a balanced, nutritious diet from as many natural sources as possible and engage in physical exercise. It may not be possible to avoid disease altogether. However, a person should do as much as they can to develop resilience and prepare the body and mind to deal with illnesses as they arise. There are many global health issue and the 6 Global health challenges we’ll tackle in 2025 are: Safe drinking water in India, Cervical cancer and HPV, Micronutrient deficiency in pregnant women, Anemia in Malawi, Neglected tropical diseases and Global climate-health agenda. Worldwide, war adversely affects the mental health of both those actively involved in conflict and civilians, it is a big challenge. Kashmir faces several health challenges, including:
(a) Mental Health Concerns: The region struggles with poor awareness of mental illness, stigma, and a high treatment gap. The National Mental Health Survey of India reported a 10.6% point prevalence of any mental illness, with 5.1% of the adult population experiencing suicidality.
(b) Healthcare System Overload: With a population of nearly 12 million, Kashmir’s healthcare system faces significant obstacles in delivering high-quality medical care, including limited resources and infrastructure.
(c) Limited Access to Healthcare: The region’s challenging terrain and conflict situation can hinder access to healthcare services, exacerbating health issues.
(d) Inadequate Mental Health Professionals: There is a shortage of mental health professionals in Kashmir, making it difficult to address the region’s mental health needs.
(e) Stigma, Awareness: Mental illness stigma and lack of awareness contribute to the health challenges in Kashmir, making it essential to address these issues through education and community engagement.
“As the saying goes a sound mind resides in a sound body, so in order to achieve that we should invest in our health for a better tomorrow than yesterday. Health is wealth so if it’s not valued nothing is achievable. One can reach heights only with a healthy being. Being human means being healthy. One should always remember it’s a gift from our Lord which we should cherish and treasure as well. Let this day be a reminder of the beauty of taking care of ourselves and each other. Today, let’s pledge to be warriors for our health and well-being.”
Addressing these health challenges will require a multi-faceted approach, including:
(a) Strengthening Healthcare Infra: Improving healthcare facilities and resources to ensure quality medical care.
(b) Increasing Access To Healthcare: Enhancing access to healthcare services, particularly in rural areas.
(c) Mental Health Support: Providing mental health support and services to address the region’s mental health needs.
(d) Community Engagement: Engaging with local communities to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental illness.
World Health Day, celebrated annually on April 7th, stands as a beacon of awareness regarding global health and its significance. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of health for all individuals and communities worldwide. The inception of World Health Day dates back to 1948, when the World Health Organization (WHO) was established. Since then, it has been observed to commemorate the founding of WHO and to draw attention to pressing health issues affecting humanity. At the global level, this day targets all the issues related to health and for this cause, several programs are organized on a yearly basis by the WHO. It is celebrated worldwide by the government of all participant countries, NGO’s , educational institutions and other organisations. The primary objective of celebrating this day is to to spread awareness among masses about major health issues in the world and to encourage prevention. It also acts as a reminder about the establishment of WHO, that has workedon eradicating various serious health issues in developing countries like chickenpox, polio, smallpox, TB, leprosy, etc. Every year, the World Health Day is anchored by a pecific theme that reflects contemporary health concerns. Themes range from mental health, maternal and child care, to universal health coverage, highlighting the iverse aspects of health that demand attention. The theme for World Health Day 2025 is “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” In order to reduce avoidable deaths and promote the long-term health of mothers and newborns, the campaign calls on governments and health organizations to fund high-impact initiatives that increase maternal and newborn health and survival. The significance of health as a fundamental human right cannot be overstated. Health is not merely the absence of disease but encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being. Recognising health as a right underscores the importance of ensuring access to healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyles, and addressing the physical, mental as well as social determinants of health. The age-old adage “health is wealth” succinctly captures the essence of the profound relationship between health and prosperity. A healthy body is a valuable asset, which serves as a springboard for productivity and success in all spheres of life. Individuals who prioritize their well-being are better equipped to excel in their professional endeavours, unleash their creative potential, and contribute meaningfully to society. By maintaining optimal health habits, such as regular exercise, nutritious eating, and adequate rest, individuals can enhance their productivity levels and achieve their goals more effectively. True wealth transcends material possessions and encompasses the intangible aspects of life, such as joy, fulfillment, and contentment. A healthy lifestyle contributes to a higher quality of life by promoting vitality, energy, and a sense of purpose among individuals. Beyond physical health, mental and emotional well-being are equally essential components of health. World Health Day is to acknowledge the millions of people who suffer from health issues. It also promotes greater and equal access to resources and necessary treatment. As the saying goes a sound mind resides in a sound body, so in order to achieve that we should invest in our health for a better tomorrow than yesterday. Health is wealth so if it’s not valued nothing is achievable. One can reach heights only with a healthy being. Being human means being healthy. One should always remember it’s a gift from our Lord which we should cherish and treasure as well. Let this day be a reminder of the beauty of taking care of ourselves and each other. Today, let’s pledge to be warriors for our health and well-being. Wishing you a powerful World Health Day filled with determination and healthy choices. Good health is the foundation of a happy life. Wishing you a solid foundation and a house full of joy this World Health Day!
(The authors write regularly for the opinion pages of “Kashmir Horizon”. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the authors and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
Dr. Nazia Fayaz Azad
Dr. Bilal Ahmad
