How is wellness best defined?

Wellness is best defined as a relative concept of optimal health, not an absolute one. This definition recognizes that wellness encompasses a broad spectrum of physical, mental, and social health rather than a rigid state that can be universally measured or attained. It acknowledges individual differences in health experiences, lifestyles, and perceptions of what constitutes well-being.

Understanding wellness as a relative concept allows for greater flexibility and personalization in health assessments and interventions. It emphasizes the importance of considering personal goals, cultural values, and environmental factors that influence an individual's overall health. This perspective encourages individuals to engage actively in the pursuit of their well-being, recognizing that their wellness journey may be influenced by both internal and external factors.

In contrast to other definitions, which propose wellness as solely medical, fixed, or reliant on external interventions, the relative concept resonates more closely with the holistic and individualized approach that is often emphasized in community and public health nursing.