What health means to us

Everyone engaged in the task of promoting and protecting health starts with a view of what health is. However there is wide variety of these views, or concepts, of health.

A holistic view of health was encapsulated in the World Health Organisation (WHO) definition of 'health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity' (WHO 1946).

Health may, in this definition, seem idealistic and unattainable, but the frequent quotation of this statement reflects its symbolic significance in highlighting the importance of a multidimensional view. (Naidoo and Wills 2001)

More recent pronouncements from the WHO emphasise the dynamic nature of health and its many social and environmental correlates:

Health is the extent to which an individual or group is able to realise aspirations, to satisfy needs, and to change or cope with the environment. Health is, therefore, seen as a resource for everyday life. Health is a positive concept emphasising social and personal, as well as physical capacities. (WHO, 1986)

Health therefore conceptualised - is not a 'state', but as a process towards the achievement of each person's potential (Seedhouse, 1986)

These are the broad definitions of health that Health Challenge Valleys can impact on, by raising awareness among those who are able to contribute towards this realisation of health in communities across south Wales.