Discover 20 unique and expert-approved definitions of health from WHO’s classic definition to modern holistic and mental health views. Understand what health really means in today’s world.
Health is a dynamic and multifaceted concept that extends far beyond the absence of disease. From clinical definitions grounded in biology and pathology to more holistic views embracing mental, emotional, social and spiritual well-being, health can be understood in many ways. Leading global organizations like the World Health Organization define it as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, not merely the absence of illness. At the same time, alternative and integrative models view health as balance, energy flow and harmony between body, mind and environment. In this guide, we explore 20 diverse definitions of health ranging from medical and psychological to cultural and spiritual offering a comprehensive perspective on what it truly means to be healthy in today’s world.
What is the True Definition of Health?
Health is more than just the absence of disease it’s a complete state of physical, mental and social well-being.
This definition, adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO), is one of the most referenced. But in reality, health is a complex, evolving concept shaped by culture, science, society and personal experience.
As someone who has worked in the wellness and healthcare space for over a decade, I’ve seen how different dimensions of health impact people’s lives. That’s why I’ve put together these 20 insightful definitions of health to help you understand its full scope whether you're a student, a wellness enthusiast, or someone on a personal health journey.
Why Is It Important to Understand Multiple Definitions of Health?
Understanding different definitions of health helps:
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Build holistic wellness strategies
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Make informed healthcare decisions
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Improve mental and emotional self-awareness
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Promote health equity and inclusion
Let’s dive into the 20 definitions now.
Top 20 Definitions of Health
1. WHO Definition of Health (1948)
“Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
This timeless definition by the World Health Organization has laid the foundation for modern healthcare.
🔗 WHO official source
2. Biomedical Definition of Health
Health is the absence of disease or biological dysfunction.
This medical view sees the body as a machine. If it breaks, you fix it. It's useful for treating illness but doesn’t capture the full picture of wellness.
3. Holistic Health Definition
Health is a balance of physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social well-being.
Holistic practitioners believe healing happens when all parts of a person are in harmony.
4. Public Health Perspective
Health is the capacity of people to adapt to, respond to, or control life’s challenges and stresses.
This view emphasizes community health, prevention and environmental influences.
5. Mental Health Definition (by APA)
Mental health is a state of emotional, psychological and social well-being in which individuals realize their abilities and cope with stress.
More than just emotions, it impacts how we think, relate and act.
🔗 American Psychological Association
6. Functional Health Definition
Health is the ability to perform daily functions effectively and independently.
Popular in aging and disability studies, it focuses on function over symptoms.
7. Wellness Definition
Wellness is an active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life.
It’s a lifestyle-oriented approach to health.
8. Environmental Health Definition
Health is the result of a safe, supportive and clean environment.
Air, water and neighborhood conditions deeply influence physical and mental well-being.
9. Social Health Definition
Health is the ability to form satisfying interpersonal relationships and adapt to social situations.
This often-overlooked aspect influences happiness and stress resilience.
10. Emotional Health Definition
Health is the ability to manage feelings, cope with stress and bounce back from setbacks.
Closely tied to mental wellness but more emotion-centered.
11. Occupational Health Definition
Health is the ability to thrive at work without emotional or physical harm.
A growing concern in today’s burnout-prone culture.
12. Spiritual Health Definition
Health is the sense of peace, purpose and connection to something greater than oneself.
Important for resilience, healing and life satisfaction.
13. Cultural Health Definition
Health is defined through cultural beliefs, traditions and values.
What’s considered "healthy" varies across global communities.
14. Economic Health Definition
Health is the ability to afford medical care, nutritious food and a safe living environment.
Tied to health equity and access to resources.
15. Indigenous Perspective on Health
Health is a balance of mind, body, spirit and land.
Indigenous definitions emphasize ancestral knowledge, tradition and environmental stewardship.
16. Preventive Health Definition
Health is proactively avoiding illness through healthy lifestyle choices and screenings.
This is the foundation of modern wellness programs.
17. Digital Health Definition
Health is maintained and improved through digital technologies like apps, wearables and telehealth.
Tech is reshaping how we track and manage well-being.
18. Personal Health Definition
Health is a personalized journey based on individual goals, challenges and life experiences.
No one-size-fits-all here self-awareness is key.
19. Global Health Definition
Health is a universal human right that transcends borders and includes all populations.
It promotes collaboration across countries for disease control and equity.
20. Resilience-Based Definition
Health is the ability to recover from illness, adapt to change and grow stronger.
This adaptive view is popular in modern psychology and trauma recovery.
Which Definition Is Best?
There’s no single "best" definition because health is personal and situational. If you’re dealing with chronic illness, functional health may matter most. If you’re focused on personal growth, wellness or spiritual health might resonate more.
How Can You Use These Definitions in Real Life?
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Create your own health goals based on what resonates with you.
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Talk to healthcare providers about health beyond symptoms.
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Educate others using these perspectives.
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Advocate for inclusive health policies.
Final Thoughts from Experience
As someone who’s worked in health advocacy and integrative wellness, I believe we need a multi-dimensional view of health. Our bodies are only part of the equation. Health is how we live, connect and find meaning.
So when someone asks, “What does health mean to you?” you now have 20 expert-backed answers.
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