World Health Day

7^th April marks the celebration of World Health Day. 

From its inception at the First Health Assembly in 1948 and since taking effect in 1950, the celebration has aimed to create awareness of a specific health theme to highlight a priority area of concern for the World Health Organisation (WHO). In 2021– after a year like no other with COVID-19 changing the world we knew – the theme was: building a fairer, healthier world. In 2025, the theme this year is: Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.

However, to really address health, it is important that we understand what it actually means. The WHO define it as ​“a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” It could be argued that this definition only skims the surface of the true definition of health. In reality, a huge range of bespoke factors will play a part in an individual’s health. 

Types of health #

Mental and physical wellbeing are probably the two most frequently discussed types of health. However, spiritual, emotional, and financial health are also key. Medical experts have shown a clear relationship between these aspects of health and our stress levels and mental and physical wellbeing.

As an example, people with better financial health often worry less and have the means to buy fresh food more regularly, and those with good spiritual health may feel a sense of calm and purpose that fuels good mental health. The science is increasingly showing that one cannot exist without the other. Achieving true health means focusing on all aspects of your life and seeking some degree of wellbeing across the board. 

Everyday we see people struggling with their bodies. Often, they have identified an issue with their physical health and look to us as Physiotherapists, Sport & Exercise Medicine Consultants etc, for a solution. However, the process of exploring someone’s overall health and finding what other areas are playing a part in this specific issue is a critical part of an initial assessment. The solution is always about addressing the bigger picture as well as the individual incident.

How can World Health Day apply to me? #

On World Health Day (and every day) we should all take one big step back and assess our overall health. Do you really feel ​‘healthy’ – physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally? Try to visualise yourself in the third person and break down the positives and negatives of each section of your health. 

Firstly, look at the positives. You’ll often surprise yourself. Give yourself credit for what you are doing well in these challenging times; adding a positive spin on things can often help. 

Secondly, look at your negatives in each category. Perhaps highlight areas where you think you might need some MOT work. However, don’t ignore the less ​‘popular’ areas – for example, people tend to skim over their emotional or mental health, but these often have a direct effect on physical health, so cannot be overlooked. Take baby steps to make change. Small steps can help you to reach your goals and improve these areas, as a steady approach is far more likely to get you on board with sustainable change that will better your health. 

Finally, remember that things are changing! We saw it in 2020 as COVID-19 altered our environment and affect our overall individual health on a daily basis, and the world continues to change every day. Take some down time to reassess and re-charge to focus on your health when you can – whether that’s walking, reading, yoga or catching up on sleep. It has never been more important to focus on your health. 

If World Health Day reminds us of anything, it’s the importance of prioritising your health and giving yourself time to become a happier, healthier ​‘you’.