Author: Erika Engelbrecht-Aldworth
Publication Date: 14 January 2025
Have you ever wondered what “healthy” truly means? It is not merely avoiding the flu—it is feeling vibrant, connected, and ready for life’s challenges. Let us explore health as the cornerstone of well-being and how technology is reshaping it.
The World Health Organization defines health as complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not just the absence of disease (WHO, 1948). This biopsychosocial perspective views health as a dynamic interplay of body, mind, and community (Lehman et al., 2017). It involves adapting—whether through exercise, addressing stress, or joining a book club (Huber et al., 2011).
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is transforming healthcare. Applications track your steps, and telehealth brings doctors to your screen, but there is a challenge: technology can feel impersonal (Schwab, 2017). Artificial intelligence processes data, but only humans offer empathy—a hug or a knowing nod (Ćwiklicki et al., 2020). Health today combines advanced tools with traditional care.
What is your health approach? Perhaps you enjoy a fitness tracker or a virtual therapy session. Health is personal, shaped by your choices and the digital world. Experiment with a new health tool this week and share your experience in the comments. Next, we will explore how COVID-19 tested our well-being in unprecedented ways.
References
Ćwiklicki, M., Klich, J., & Chen, J. (2020). The adaptiveness of the healthcare system to the fourth industrial revolution: A preliminary analysis. Futures, 122, 102602.
Huber, M., Knottnerus, J. A., Green, L., van der Horst, H., Jadad, A. R., Kromhout, D., … & Smid, H. (2011). How should we define health? BMJ, 343, d4163.
Lehman, B. J., David, D. M., & Gruber, J. A. (2017). Rethinking the biopsychosocial model of health: Understanding health as a dynamic system. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 11(8), e12328.
Schwab, K. (2017). The fourth industrial revolution. Currency.
World Health Organization. (1948). World Health Organization constitution. Geneva.