| Definition | Health refers to a state of physical, mental, and social well-being where disease and infirmity are absent. It is often associated with the absence of illness or medical conditions. | Wellness encompasses a holistic approach to well-being, focusing on the proactive pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles that lead to a fulfilling and balanced life. It includes physical, mental, emotional, and social dimensions. |
| Scope | Health primarily addresses physical well-being and the absence of disease or medical conditions. | Wellness takes a broader approach, considering physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of well-being, emphasizing quality of life and personal fulfillment. |
| Focus | Health focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating medical conditions and illnesses to maintain or restore physical health. | Wellness emphasizes prevention, self-care, and the pursuit of activities that promote overall well-being, happiness, and life satisfaction. |
| State vs. Process | Health is often viewed as a state or condition, with individuals categorized as either healthy or ill. | Wellness is seen as an ongoing process or journey, where individuals continuously strive to improve their overall well-being and make positive lifestyle choices. |
| Disease-Centric | Health is sometimes centered around disease prevention, diagnosis, and management, with a focus on medical interventions and treatments. | Wellness is not primarily centered around disease but instead focuses on healthy behaviors, positive attitudes, and lifestyle choices that promote well-being. |
| Clinical vs. Lifestyle | Health interventions are often clinical in nature, involving medical professionals, medications, and treatments. | Wellness interventions include lifestyle choices, such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, mindfulness, and personal development, often implemented by individuals themselves. |
| Reactive vs. Proactive | Health tends to be more reactive, addressing health issues when they arise or seeking medical care in response to symptoms or diagnoses. | Wellness is proactive, with individuals taking active steps to prevent health problems, improve their quality of life, and enhance their overall well-being. |
| Quality of Life | Health primarily focuses on the absence of disease or medical conditions and may not address broader aspects of life satisfaction and fulfillment. | Wellness places a strong emphasis on improving the quality of life, happiness, and life satisfaction, encompassing physical, emotional, and social dimensions. |
| Holistic Approach | Health may not always consider the interconnectedness of physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. | Wellness takes a holistic approach, recognizing that these dimensions are interconnected and contribute to overall well-being. |
| Individual Choices | Health often involves medical professionals making decisions and recommendations for individuals. | Wellness empowers individuals to make choices and take responsibility for their own well-being, encouraging active engagement in self-care. |
| Preventive Measures | Health may include preventive measures, but its primary focus is often on diagnosing and treating existing health conditions. | Wellness places a strong emphasis on preventive measures, such as healthy lifestyles, screenings, and early interventions, to maintain well-being |
