Four vital components to well-being

December 11, 2018

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Mental health is important at every stage of life. Often associated to wellness and well-being, it is how we perceive the make-up of human beings.

“The make-up of a human being — physical, psychological, social and spiritual— is also part of the definition of health given by the World Health Organisation (WHO). So well-being is to be healthy in all four areas," said Associate Professor Dr Xavier Vincent Pereira, School of Medicine, Taylor’s University Clinical School.

“Based on this definition, it is not the mere absence of illness but being well physically, psychologically, socially and spiritually which translates to happiness,” he added.

Although these components are universal across faiths, cultures and nationalities, people take different paths to increasing their individual well-being. For most people, spirituality drives them in all these areas. Their faith is the most important facet of their lives and it is the foundation of their daily efforts.

Dr Xavier further emphasised that because these components are within our control, we have the ability to improve them.

"If one is able to cope with stress, internal and external environmental issues psychologically, then one would not have the stresses that can contribute to psychological and social ill health.

“If you look at research in happiness, there are a number of factors. Today, there is a lot of word on relationships and happiness. So, if you have good interpersonal relationships, socially it contributes better. Then, if you have meaning in life – you do meaningful things, your work is meaningful – it contributes to happiness,” he added.

Apart from highlighting the ability to adjust and adapt to various situations as a contributing factor to a person’s well-being and happiness, he pointed out to the need to exercise which helps in the release of serotonin, have six to eight hours of sleep as poor sleep contributes to mental ill health and vice versa, a healthy diet, to cut down on stimulants, have alcohol in moderation and cut down of caffeine which aggravates anxiety.

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