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Health as complete well-being

Most people think being healthy just means not being ill. The World Health Organization (WHO) takes a wider view. It defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Infirmity means weakness or frailty.

Physical well-being means the body works properly and is free from illness or injury. Mental well-being means being able to cope with everyday stress and feeling content, without distress. Social well-being means having supportive relationships and being able to take part in the community.

All three parts matter. A person with no disease can still be unhealthy if they are constantly anxious or very lonely.

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