Modern public health programs have adopted these ideas, along with many others such as cleanliness, clean water and sanitation, basic nutrition and exercise. However, many people argue that these efforts go too far in eliminating physical illnesses rather than promoting a healthier lifestyle. For them, health is a term used to describe a mental well-being, with the goal of making individuals more independent and knowledgeable about their own health. While there is much debate about the definition of health, there is widespread agreement that improving mental health translates into better health.
Mental health care systems aim to build a community environment that improves well-being. For instance, some health care facilities to provide programs that involve vocational or academic enrichment activities to bring together those who have similar needs. The goal is to create conditions that foster self-sufficiency. Centers also work with individuals and families to identify and promote mental health initiatives that can improve their lives.
Societies that have developed nationally, as well as locally, have made the most of their resources to develop good health. They have taken time to research, test, and implement new preventative methods, as well as providing information and education about the basics of good health. In developing countries, however, there is limited access to quality healthcare facilities and training for medical personnel. Life expectancy for people of this region can be significantly less than that of developed countries. The situation is particularly grim in the rural areas where families struggle to meet the basic life expectancy requirements.
Issues in Developing Countries:
While developing countries may include physical illnesses as a part of their statistical profile, they do not include mental illnesses, which are often left untreated or undiagnosed. Often, individuals may assume that they have a physical illness when in fact they may be suffering from another more serious health problem. For example, people may think that they have a cold if they exhibit flu-like symptoms, such as headache, muscle aches, fatigue, or cough. Likewise, they may think that they have an ear infection when in reality it could be the onset of amnesia. A better approach would be to receive a healthcare diagnosis as soon as possible and seek treatment to prevent the illness from escalating.
Developed nations have responded to health care challenges by investing in the development of adequate primary and secondary medical care and increased health services for the mentally distressed. For example, there are community clinics with doctors and nurses on site who can provide basic health care services. Many also offer psychiatric and psychological assistance. There are also outreach programs based on culture and ethnicity that aim to eliminate stigma and offer medical care that is accessible to all. By far, the biggest challenge to achieving a truly healthful lifestyle remains educating the general population about health and nutrition, basic illness management, preventive care, and early detection and management of chronic illnesses.
