Map Of Health-Related Quality Of Life Dimensions: Dimensions of Health: Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. The World Health Organization (WHO) Constitution defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not just the absence of disease or infirmity” (Olsen & Misajon, 2020) Health is a dynamic process because it is always changing. In trying to define the various aspects of health, it is important to understand that healthcare exists to assist people maintain the optimal state of health. There are different dimensions of health, which can be categorized into physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health.
Physical Health: Physical dimension of health involves the bodily aspects of health. It ranges in quality along a continuum where a combination of illnesses like cancer cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and hypertension are at one end and a person who is physically healthy on the other end. It is also important to note that physical health is likely to affect the other dimensions of health because a decline in it can result to a decline in other dimensions. This is the ability to function in daily activities and have the energy to do what you enjoy. It includes being able to get up in the morning, brush your teeth, take a shower, get dressed, eat breakfast, and go to work. It also includes being able to walk up stairs without getting winded, play with your kids or grandkids, and having the energy to do yard work or housework.
Mental Health: Mental health is mainly concerned with the cognitive aspects of health. In some cases, mental health is known to be connected to or associated with emotional health. This is the ability to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. Mental health involves the ability of people to correctly use their brain. It includes having a positive outlook on life, being able to set goals and achieve them, and being able to handle relationships. Mental health is also known to affect the other dimensions of health.
Emotional Health: This dimension of health is mainly concerned with the general emotional state and mood of an individual. This is the ability to recognize and express emotions in a healthy way. It includes being able to deal with stress, anxiety, and depression in a positive way (Olsen & Misajon, 2020). It also includes being able to handle relationships in a positive way. There are chances that this dimension of health also affects other dimensions because a person with good self-esteem can be more confident within the social settings, quickly make friends, and mostly perform better in physical activity.
Social Health: This is the ability to interact with others in a positive way. It includes being able to communicate effectively, being able to work well with others, and being able to form and maintain relationships. It also involves behaving appropriately when in the middle of others as well as maintaining socially acceptable standards.
Spiritual health:This is the ability to find meaning and purpose in life. It includes having a sense of hope, belonging, and purpose. It also includes being able to forgive yourself and others, and having a sense of peace. No matter what your age and health are very important. Spiritual health is more likely to affect the emotional and mental health of an individual as compared to other dimensions. By taking care of yourself and making healthy choices, you can improve your health and quality of life. There are many things you can do to promote health in all dimensions.
Reference
Olsen, J. A., & Misajon, R. (2020). A conceptual map of health-related quality of life dimensions: key lessons for a new instrument. Quality of life research: An International Journal of Quality of Life Aspects of Treatment, Care and Rehabilitation, 29(3), 733–743. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11136-019-02341-3