Health is a condition where physical, mental and emotional well being is intact where illness and infirmity aren’t present. It also entails the proper functioning of the immune system, the maintenance of a reasonable weight for a person’s age, the capacity to engage in active pursuits without injury or impediment, adequate nourishment, and a proper sleeping schedule. Mental health, on the other hand, pertains to the individual’s ability to live an enjoyable, productive life.
The absence of mental health can be seen in its relationship to the lack of disease. People with a healthy lifestyle may sometimes experience periods of sickness that seem to be absent because they have avoided it by being busy or by not paying attention to their bodies’ signals. They experience periods of psychological illness that seem to be absent because they ignore it or deny its existence. Some forms of mental illnesses such as schizophrenia or delusional disorder may be acute or chronic, and therefore their presence may be felt frequently over time.
Health can be affected through various ways. People who don’t get enough sleep or eat a balanced diet, for instance, are more prone to obesity and a poor overall health status. People with physical ailments also experience lower well-being. Injuries result in pain and discomfort, which affect the way one engages in activities. Illness, infections, complications during surgery and illnesses can all affect health as well.
Good physical and mental wellness is important to avoid poor health status and disease. A healthy lifestyle includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, relaxation and a reduction of stress. People who smoke or drink excessively are at higher risk of developing a range of serious health conditions. These include cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Poor hygiene and lack of exercise also contribute to poor wellness, as does the absence of social support and poor coping skills.
Mental health includes a person’s ability to think, reason and solve problems. It also involves emotional well being, motivation, creativity and interpersonal skills. A good lifestyle helps people cope with stress, anxiety and depression. It also includes social support from family and friends and active involvement in activities that promote health and well-being.
Older adults who suffer from sleep deprivation are at a higher risk of developing a range of serious illnesses. These include cardiovascular disease, hypertension, Type II diabetes, arthritis and mental illness. A lack of sleep also leads to complications with weight control, memory loss, and functional limitations. This includes depression, anxiety and fatigue, among others.