Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a condition of “uneven physical, emotional and social well being and not the absence of sickness and disease.” A wide variety of definitions has been used over the years for various purposes. However, one of the most common modern definitions of health remains the need for a healthy body and mind. These are the two major components of a healthy society.
The promotion of general well being and health can be achieved in several ways. First, a community must have adequate resources, which can be obtained through public health programs, in order to provide basic and medically necessary services to its people. In addition, an environment that values physical well being can be created through education, support for community organizations that provide programs designed to promote physical fitness and healthy lifestyles, and the encouragement of exercise. All of these efforts contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Psychological well being refers to your emotional and personal well being. People are considered to be healthy if they can enjoy their lives without being bothered by illness, loneliness, and negative emotions. A healthy individual can deal with problems in his or her life and make productive and contributing contributions to society. Health professionals agree that a happy and contented person is able to participate effectively in the community, while being aware of his or her physical, mental, and emotional health. Individuals who are mentally healthy tend to be more productive and happier individuals. They can also work productively at work and in their daily lives.
Community health promotion snapshots are a valuable tool for measuring health among communities. Through this tool, health professionals are able to observe how people within a community are responding to health issues and to changes in health. snapshot surveys are not only conducted for academic purposes; they are also used to generate important data on different aspects of community health. Some of the types of health promotion surveys included are interviews, focus groups, and periodic health surveys. Surveys on health promotion are also useful in identifying problems and determining areas for improvement.
The good health of an individual is reflected in his or her ability to make productive and responsible decisions regarding his or her health, finances, and interpersonal relationships. Life expectancy is one of the most commonly asked questions by surveyors conducting health promotion surveys. The increase in life expectancy of an individual indicates how healthy he or she is in terms of health conditions and quality of life. Other questions on life expectancy include, “In your opinion, how long would it take you to fall ill?”
In general, health promotion surveys help in identifying the prevalent patterns and trends regarding common diseases and ailments prevalent in communities. These surveys also provide an understanding of the prevailing health behaviors among the residents of the community, their relationship with the prevalent diseases, and the ways in which they could improve their health. For example, the use of sunscreen and protection against skin cancer in adults are important factors that affect health information gathering. It is also essential for health communication activities to be aware of the changing health behaviors and incorporate them in the public dialogue on health and disease.