According to the World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity
Dar es Salaam. Being healthy is not simply about being free of illness. Stressful jobs, broken relationships, unsafe environments and constant pressure can make a person unhealthy, even without a diagnosed disease.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
Pharmacist and Public Health specialist Lateefa-Lilian Chuwa believes this misunderstanding is widespread.
She said many Tanzanians equate health with hospital visits rather than daily lifestyle choices.
“When someone asks, ‘How’s your health?’ most of us respond, ‘I’m fine.’ If we’re not in pain or coughing, or lying in a hospital bed, we assume we’re healthy. But our well-being is shaped by so much more, where we live, what we eat, the work we do, and the people around us,” she said.
She emphasised that income, employment status, and environment all play a central role in health outcomes.
“A stable job allows you to buy nutritious food and live in safer housing. Unemployment or underemployment, on the other hand fuel stress and poor diets, meanwhile, exposure to polluted air from traffic or indoor charcoal smoke is still a major health risk,” she said.
For Ms Chuwa, the concept of health is built day by day, not just treated when something goes wrong.
“Without safe environments, decent work, strong relationships and access to care the state of health we all desire is almost impossible to attain” she said
Ms Chuwa urged Tanzanians to go beyond medical charts and test results when evaluating health.
“Consider your job, your environment, your relationships, your sense of security, all these matters, we may not control everything but we can start where we are by choosing healthier foods, supporting one another, pushing for safer environments and caring for our mental well-being,” she said.
On the other hand, mental health professional Daniel Lucas said emotional well-being is often the missing link in how people define health.
“A person may appear physically healthy but still be deeply unwell. To be truly healthy, you must balance physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being,” he said.
He further added that struggling to manage emotions like stress, anger, or anxiety is a sign that professional help may be needed.
“If you often feel overwhelmed by emotions, that’s a clear signal you’re not in good health,” he said.
Mr Lucas also noted that energy levels, sleep quality, and adaptability are important measures of health.
“If you are constantly tired or cannot complete your daily tasks, that’s a red flag. Eight hours of sleep is ideal, but even when it’s not possible, quality rest is essential for both body and mind.
“True health means having the resources like patience, decision-making skills, and a positive mind-set, to cope with life’s challenges,” he said.
According to Dr Magnus Msango, many patients’ challenges lie not in their symptoms but in their daily routines.
“I meet patients worried about their blood pressure or a persistent cough. But then I learn they work two jobs, barely sleep, live in noisy, polluted neighbourhoods, and rely on fast food. That person is not truly healthy. Health is not just about test results, it’s about how you live every day,” he said.
This message, echoed by health professionals, is clear: wellness is not simply the absence of disease.
It is a reflection of choices, environments, and the support systems around us.
