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THE CONCEPT OF NORMAL AND ABNORMAL HEALTH

Health is the state of physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease for
example a person may be HIV positive but still health keeping constant th three dimensions of health.
This is according to World Health Organization in 1946.

Normal health refers to the state in which an individual functions effectively and efficiently in their daily
life without significant physical, mental, or social limitations. This state is characterized by the absence
of disease, a balanced mental state, and the ability to engage in typical activities such as work,
recreation, and social interactions.

For example, a person who maintains a healthy diet, exercises regularly, has no chronic illnesses, and
experiences general well-being can be considered to be in normal health. This state is often
benchmarked against average population standards for various health indicators, such as blood
pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index (BMI).

Abnormal health, on the other hand, signifies a deviation from the normal state, encompassing any
condition that impairs an individual's ability to function normally. This can include physical illnesses,
mental health disorders, and social dysfunctions. Abnormal health conditions often require medical
intervention and can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.

For instance, diabetes is an example of abnormal health where the body cannot regulate blood sugar
levels effectively. Similarly, mental health conditions like depression or anxiety can alter a person’s
mood, behavior, and overall ability to function, signifying an abnormal state of health.

The distinction between normal and abnormal health can sometimes be subtle and context-dependent.
For instance, aging naturally brings changes in physical and cognitive functions, which can be considered
normal if they occur within expected ranges. However, when these changes lead to significant
impairment or exceed what is typical for an individual's age group, they may be classified as abnormal.
An elderly person experiencing mild memory lapses could be seen as normal, but if those lapses develop
into dementia, it becomes an abnormal health condition requiring medical attention.

Understanding normal and abnormal health is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and the promotion of
overall well-being. Healthcare professionals rely on established medical standards and diagnostic criteria
to differentiate between the two. This helps in identifying when interventions are necessary and in
providing appropriate care. For example, regular screenings and check-ups can detect early signs of
abnormal conditions like hypertension or high cholesterol, which might be managed effectively if
identified early. Thus, recognizing the spectrum between normal and abnormal health is essential for
maintaining and improving health outcomes across populations.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN NORMAL AND ABNORMAL HEALTH


The normal and abnormal health differs from each other in several aspects extracted from the three
dimensions of health which are physical, mental and social well being as explained by World Health
Organization. These differences are as explained below

THE PHYSICAL STATE OF THE BODY

The physical state plays a critical role in differentiating between normal and abnormal health. In normal
health, the body maintains homeostasis, a stable internal environment crucial for proper functioning.
Vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate stay within normal ranges, indicating
that physiological processes are working efficiently. A person in normal health can perform daily
activities without pain or significant limitations, maintaining normal appetite and sleep patterns. Routine
medical examinations and lab tests do not reveal any abnormalities, and the individual typically
experiences adequate energy levels necessary for routine tasks, reflecting a well-functioning
metabolism.

In contrast, abnormal health is marked by disruptions in the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis.
These disruptions can manifest as hormonal imbalances, abnormal blood pressure, or irregular heart
rates. Impaired functionality becomes evident, as individuals may struggle with daily activities due to
pain, fatigue, or other forms of discomfort. Symptoms might include shortness of breath, joint pain, or
mobility issues, all of which hinder normal functioning. The presence of disease or injury further
characterizes abnormal health, with diagnostic tests revealing conditions such as infections, chronic
illnesses (like diabetes or heart disease), or physical injuries. Additionally, altered energy levels, such as
persistent fatigue or unusually high energy, often indicate underlying health problems like thyroid
disorders, anemia, or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Emil Durkheim, a French sociologist argued that physical state is a marker between normal and
abnormal health in his book wrote in 1893 and titled," Division of labour in the society" He emphasized
the importance of social factors in shaping an individual's well-being, including physical health.
Durkheim's work on social integration and its impact on health suggests that individuals with strong
social ties and connections are more likely to experience better physical and mental health, while those
with weaker social bonds are at greater risk of health problems and mortality.

Thus, while normal health is defined by the body’s ability to maintain balance and perform effectively,
abnormal health involves disruptions in these processes, leading to evident symptoms and signs of
disease or dysfunction.

EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
This is also called emotional health or wellness,refers to an ability of an individual's to acknowledge and
cope with both positive and negative emotions and adapt challenges

throughout life.It can significantly impact how well a person functions day- to -day , their

relationships, work and overall mental and physical health.

For normal health; normal emotional well-being involve ability to identify,express ,and manage
emotions in healthy and constructive manner.

Individuals with normal emotional well-being can effectively cope with stress,regulate their emotions,
maintain positive relationships ,and have a good sense of self worth.

Abnormal emotional health it involves difficulties in managing emotions,expressing feeling


appropriately,or coping with stressors.

Individuals with abnormal emotional health may experience intense and prolonged negative emotions
such as anxiety, depression,anger ,fear that significantly interfere with normal daily lives.

Differences between normal and abnormal emotional health involve the following;

Expression of emotion:In normal emotional health, individuals can express a wide range of
emotions in a balanced way.In contrast , abnormal emotional health may involve excessive expression of
negative emotions or suppression of emotions.

Emotional regulation:Normal emotional health includes effective regulation of emotions to


maintain stability and well-being.Abnormal emotional health may manifest as difficulty in controlling or
managing intense emotions

Impacts on daily functioning: Normal emotional well-being allows individuals to function


optimally in various aspects of life despite experiencing ups and downs in emotions.Abnormal emotional
well-being can lead to impairment in daily functioning due to over whelming or persistent negative
emotions.

So such differences between normal and abnormal emotional well-being lies mainly in ability to
manage,express and regulations of emotions effectively,whereby normal emotional health contribute to
overall well-being and resilience in facing life's challenges while abnormal emotional well-being can
result in significant distress and functional impairment since individual with abnormal emotional health
fail to manage, express and regulate emotions effectively.Also mostly one with normal emotional health
can successfully interact with their sorrounding , able to maintain relationship with others and perform
daily task in the society effectively as compared to individual with abnormal emotional well-being.

BEHAVIOURAL PATTERN

Behavioral patterns play a crucial role in distinguishing between normal and abnormal health, serving as
a key indicator in both psychological and physical health assessments. Normal health is typically
characterized by behaviors that align with societal norms and expectations, reflecting an individual's
ability to adapt and function effectively in daily life. These behaviors include regular sleep patterns,
balanced eating habits, consistent exercise, and the ability to manage stress. For instance, someone who
maintains a healthy diet, exercises regularly, sleeps adequately, and engages in social activities is
generally considered to be in good health.

In contrast, abnormal health often manifests through significant deviations from these normative
behaviors. Behavioral patterns indicative of abnormal health include irregular sleep cycles, extreme
changes in appetite, chronic fatigue, social withdrawal, and excessive stress or anxiety. These deviations
can be symptoms of underlying physical or mental health issues. For example, persistent insomnia or
hypersomnia may signal conditions such as depression or anxiety disorders, while drastic weight loss or
gain could be indicative of eating disorders or metabolic conditions. These abnormal patterns disrupt an
individual's ability to function normally, often requiring medical or psychological intervention.

Mental health conditions particularly highlight the importance of behavioral patterns in distinguishing
between normal and abnormal health. Disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and
schizophrenia can be identified through specific behavioral changes. For instance, someone with
depression may exhibit persistent sadness, a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, and
significant changes in sleeping and eating habits. Conversely, individuals with anxiety might demonstrate
avoidance behaviors, restlessness, and excessive worry. Recognizing these patterns is essential for early
diagnosis and treatment, helping to prevent the escalation of symptoms.

Moreover, behavioral patterns also provide insights into the effectiveness of treatments and
interventions. Monitoring changes in behavior over time can help healthcare providers assess whether a
patient is responding well to treatment or if adjustments are needed. For example, improvements in
sleep quality, social interaction, and daily activity levels can indicate positive responses to therapy or
medication. Conversely, a lack of improvement or worsening of behaviors might suggest the need for a
different approach. This continuous monitoring underscores the dynamic nature of health, where
maintaining normalcy in behavioral patterns is key to overall well-being.

SLEEP PATTERN

This refers to the way in which an individual's sleep is structured over a period of time. it involves
duration as well as quality of sleep experienced by an individual.undestanding the sleeping pattern of an
individual is very important so as to assess the overall health,this is because variation in sleeping
pattern tend to affect various aspects of the health like mood, mental health, physical health and the
overall quality of life.
Normally sleeing pattern may be affected by a lot of factors includiing physical factors like changes in
environmental temperature, and physical noises also factors like life style, stress level , work schedules,
age, mental state and physical state affects the overall sleeping pattern of an individual.

A normal health individual experiances a sleeping pattern which is characterized by consistently having
uninterrupted sleep on regular basis which normally is characterized by waking up feeling refreshed,
clear headed, capable of paying attention and having enough energy to sustain through the day.

Regular sleeping pattern to normal health individual has a lot of enefits which including better cognitive
characterized by better concentration and improved memory, improved mood due to absence of stress
and anxiety, improved mental function, restored immune system improved physical performance ,
reduces the risk of weight gain, promotes better social interactions and enhance body growth.

For individuals with abnormal health their sleeping pattern is characterized by a condition callled
insomnia, that is characterized by difficult in falling asleep, short sleep duration and feeling tireness
during the day. This condition is caused by the factors like stress,anxiety, mental health
problem,physical illiness and pain neurological problems, relationship factors,medications, life style and
other sleeping disorders.

Then irregular sleeping pattern for abnormal health individuals results to loss of cognitive functions like
loss of memory and ability to concentrate, weak physical state of the body, weak immunity, Emotional
disturbances, weight gain impairement in metabolism,mental health risk and body growth problems.

SOCIAL INTERACTION

Social interactions plays a crucial role in shaping an individual’s physical,mental and emotional

Well being.The way we interact with others can have effects on our health both positively and
negatively.In this context we will delve the intricate relationship between social interactions and
health ,exploring how normal social interactions contribute to overall well being as well as how disrupts
in social interactions lead to abnormal health outcomes;

Normal social interactions and health


Refers to the everyday interactions that individual’s engage in with family,friends,colleagues and the
broader community.These interactions are essential in maintaining a sense of belonging,support and
connectedness.Research has consistently shown that positive social interactions have numerous health
benefits across different age groups;

Physical health;normal social interactions can have a significant impact on physical health outcomes.For
example studies have demonstrated that individuals who have strong social connections tend to live
longer than those who are socially isolated.Social supportsystems can also play a crucial role in
promoting healthy behaviours such as regular exercise ,proper nutrition and adherence to medical
treatments.

Mental health;Social interaction is closely linked to mental health outcomes.Regular social engagement
has been associated with lower rates of depression,anxiety and other mental health
disorders.Interacting with others can provide emotional support,reduce feeling of loneliness and
isolation and improve overall psychological well being.

Abnormal social interactions and health

On the other hand disruptions or abnormalities in social interactions can have detrimental effects on
health outcomes.Various factors such as social isolations and discrimination or lack of social upport can
contribute to adverse health consequences;

Social isolation;occurs when individuals lack meaningful connections with others or feel disconnected
from their social network.Prolonged periods of isolation have been linked to increased risk of
cardiovascular diseases,depression,weakened immunity system function and premature mortality.

Harrassment ;Negative social interactions sch as harassment can have serious implications for both
physical and mental health.Victims of harassment experience higher levels of stress and anxiety.

THE PHYSICAL FITNESS OF THE BODY

Differentiating normal health from abnormal health based on physical fitness involves a comprehensive
assessment of an individual's physical capabilities, bodily functions, and overall well-being. Physical
fitness encompasses various domains such as cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and
endurance, flexibility, body composition, metabolic health, recovery and resilience, and mental and
emotional well-being.

Understanding these aspects provides valuable insights into what constitutes normal health and
highlights deviations that may indicate abnormal health.Cardiovascular endurance is a fundamental
aspect of physical fitness. Individuals with normal health can engage in activities such as walking,
running, cycling, or swimming without experiencing excessive fatigue. They typically have a resting heart
rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute, which reflects a healthy heart. Additionally, their ability to
maintain an elevated heart rate during exercise and recover quickly afterward signifies good
cardiovascular fitness. Conversely, abnormal health is marked by symptoms such as shortness of breath,
excessive fatigue, or chest pain during moderate physical activity. A resting heart rate significantly
outside the normal range, either too high or too low, and a poor recovery rate after exercise are also
indicative of compromised cardiovascular health.Muscular strength and endurance are also critical
components of physical fitness.

People with normal health can perform daily activities and exercises, such as lifting, carrying, and
climbing stairs, without undue difficulty. They exhibit balanced muscle strength across different muscle
groups and can perform a reasonable number of repetitions of strength exercises like push-ups and sit-
ups. In contrast, individuals with abnormal health may struggle with everyday tasks due to weakness,
display significant muscle imbalances or noticeable atrophy in certain muscle groups, and experience
pain or discomfort during or after physical activity.Flexibility is another vital aspect of physical fitness,
enabling individuals to perform activities that require bending, stretching, or twisting without pain or
stiffness. Those with normal health possess a normal range of motion in major joints such as the
shoulders, hips, and knees.

Abnormal health, however, is characterized by a limited range of motion in joints, leading to difficulty in
performing normal tasks. Pain, stiffness, or discomfort when trying to stretch or move joints through
their full range further indicates compromised flexibility.Body composition, which refers to the
proportion of muscle mass and body fat, is an important indicator of health. Individuals with normal
health maintain a body fat percentage within a healthy range for their age and gender and exhibit a
proportionate distribution of muscle mass and body fat. On the other hand, an excessively high or low
body fat percentage, noticeable lack of muscle mass (sarcopenia), or excessive muscle mass due to
abnormal conditions signifies abnormal health.Metabolic health encompasses factors such as blood
pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.

Normal health is characterized by normal readings in these areas and the ability to maintain energy
levels throughout the day without undue fatigue. Abnormal health may involve hypertension,
hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), or dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), along with frequent
fatigue, dizziness, or unexplained weight changes.Recovery and resilience play a crucial role in
differentiating normal health from abnormal health. Individuals with normal health recover quickly from
minor illnesses, injuries, or strenuous activities and exhibit a normal immune response, enabling them to
fight off infections effectively. In contrast, prolonged recovery from illnesses or injuries, frequent
infections, or slow healing of wounds are indicative of abnormal health.

Finally, mental and emotional well-being, closely related to physical fitness, is an essential component of
overall health. Individuals with normal health maintain a positive attitude towards physical activity and
exercise, handle stress effectively, and stay motivated to remain active. Abnormal health, however, may
be marked by a lack of interest or motivation for physical activities and high levels of stress, anxiety, or
depression, which can adversely affect physical performance.In summary, normal health is characterized
by a harmonious balance of cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, healthy body
composition, efficient metabolic function, quick recovery, and a positive mental and emotional state.
Individuals with normal health can perform daily activities with ease, recover quickly, and maintain a
positive outlook towards physical activity. Abnormal health, on the other hand, involves limitations or
difficulties in these areas, often accompanied by pain, discomfort, or a significant impact on daily
functioning and overall quality of life. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for promoting health
and well-being and identifying potential areas of concern that require attention.

SUBSTANCE USE

Differentiating normal health from abnormal health based on substance use requires a comprehensive
evaluation of an individual's patterns, frequency, and the impacts of their substance consumption on
physical, mental, and social well-being. Substance use varies widely, from occasional and moderate
consumption to patterns that lead to dependence and significant health issues.

This point will explore the key factors that distinguish normal health from abnormal health in the
context of substance use.Frequency and Quantity of UseA primary distinction between normal and
abnormal health in substance use is the frequency and quantity of consumption. Individuals with normal
health typically engage in occasional or moderate use of legal substances such as alcohol, adhering to
recommended guidelines. They avoid illegal substances and do not misuse prescription medications.

Conversely, abnormal health is characterized by frequent or heavy use of legal substances, often
exceeding recommended guidelines. This category also includes the use of illegal substances or the
misuse of prescription medications, such as taking higher doses than prescribed or using medications
not intended for them.Impact on Physical HealthThe impact of substance use on physical health is
another critical factor. Individuals with normal health do not experience significant negative physical
health consequences from their substance use. They maintain healthy liver function, cardiovascular
health, and overall physical well-being.

In contrast, those with abnormal health often develop health problems directly linked to substance use,
such as liver disease, cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems, or other conditions. Observable
physical signs of substance abuse, like needle marks, unexplained weight loss, or poor hygiene, further
indicate abnormal health.Impact on Mental HealthSubstance use also affects mental health, providing a
clear marker between normal and abnormal health. In normal health, occasional substance use does not
lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.

However, in abnormal health, substance use contributes to or exacerbates mental health problems such
as anxiety, depression, paranoia, or psychosis. Dependence on substances to manage stress or other
mental health conditions is a significant indicator of abnormal health.Impact on Social and Occupational
FunctioningThe effects of substance use on social and occupational functioning are telling indicators of
health status. Individuals with normal health can engage in substance use without it interfering with
their social relationships, work performance, or responsibilities. They maintain healthy relationships and
stable job performance. In contrast, those with abnormal health often experience conflicts with family,
friends, or colleagues due to substance use. Poor job performance, absenteeism, or job loss, as well as
legal issues related to substance use, such as driving under the influence, are common in individuals
with abnormal health.Patterns of UsePatterns of use further differentiate normal from abnormal health.
Controlled use, where the individual can stop or moderate their consumption without difficulty, is a sign
of normal health.

On the other hand, uncontrolled or compulsive use indicates dependence or addiction, hallmarks of
abnormal health. Experiencing cravings and withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance is
another clear indicator of abnormal health.Behavioral ChangesBehavioral changes due to substance use
are significant markers. In normal health, there are no substantial changes in behavior or personality
due to substance use. Abnormal health, however, is often accompanied by noticeable changes in
behavior, mood swings, irritability, or aggression linked to substance use. Engaging in risky behaviors,
such as unsafe sex or driving under the influence due to impaired judgment, is also indicative of
abnormal health.Financial ImpactFinally, the financial impact of substance use can distinguish normal
from abnormal health. Individuals with normal health do not encounter financial difficulties due to
substance use; their spending on substances is within their budget. Conversely, financial problems due
to excessive spending on substances are common in individuals with abnormal health. They may resort
to borrowing money, selling possessions, or engaging in illegal activities to obtain
substances.SummaryIn summary, normal health in the context of substance use is characterized by
occasional or moderate consumption of legal substances, adherence to medical guidelines, and an
absence of significant negative impacts on physical health, mental well-being, social relationships,
occupational functioning, or financial stability.

Individuals with normal health control their substance use and avoid adverse consequences.Abnormal
health, on the other hand, involves frequent or heavy use of substances, including illegal drugs or the
misuse of prescription medications. This leads to physical health problems, mental health issues, social
and occupational dysfunction, and financial difficulties. Behavioral changes, legal issues, and signs of
dependence or addiction further differentiate abnormal health from normal health. Recognizing these
distinctions is crucial for early intervention and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING

Cognitive functioning refers to a broad range of mental processes that are involved in the acquisition,
storage, manipulation, and retrieval of information. It encompasses various mental abilities, including
perception, attention, memory, language, problem-solving, reasoning, and decision-making. Here's a
deeper look into some key aspects of cognitive functioning:

Perception involves the process of interpreting sensory information to understand the environment.
This includes visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, and gustatory information. The brain integrates these
sensory inputs to form a coherent picture of the world.
Attention is the ability to focus on specific stimuli or tasks while ignoring others. It includes selective
attention (focusing on one thing while ignoring distractions), sustained attention (maintaining focus over
time), and divided attention (handling multiple tasks simultaneously).

Memory is the process of encoding, storing, and retrieving information. It includes several types:

-Sensory Memory: Brief retention of sensory information.

- Short-Term Memory: Also known as working memory, it temporarily holds and manipulates
information.

- Long-Term Memory:Stores information over extended periods. It includes:

- Explicit (Declarative) Memory:Conscious recollection of facts and events. It further divides into
episodic memory (personal experiences) and semantic memory (general knowledge).

- Implicit (Non-declarative) Memory: Unconscious memories, such as skills and conditioned responses.

Problem-solving is the cognitive process of finding solutions to difficult or complex issues. Reasoning
involves the ability to form judgments and draw conclusions. It includes:

- Inductive Reasoning:Drawing general conclusions from specific observations.

- Deductive Reasoning:Applying general principles to reach specific conclusions.

- Abstract Reasoning: Thinking about objects, principles, and ideas that are not physically present.

Executive functions are high-level cognitive processes that enable goal-directed behavior. They include:

- Planning:Setting goals and outlining steps to achieve them.

- inhibition:Controlling impulses and resisting distractions.

- Cognitive Flexibility:Adapting to changing situations and perspectives.

- Working Memory:Holding and manipulating information over short periods.

Decision-making is the process of selecting among alternatives. It involves evaluating the potential
outcomes, risks, and benefits of different choices. It can be influenced by emotions, cognitive biases,
and social factors.

Cognitive functions are supported by various brain regions:

- Prefrontal Cortex: Involved in executive functions, decision-making, and social behavior.

ocampus:Critical for forming new memories.

- Amygdala: Plays a role in emotional processing.


- Parietal Lobes:Important for spatial awareness and attention.

- Temporal Lobes: Involved in auditory processing and memory.

- Occipital Lobes:Responsible for visual processing.

Cognitive abilities develop throughout childhood and adolescence, reaching a peak in young adulthood.
As people age, some cognitive functions, such as processing speed and memory, may decline, while
others, like knowledge and vocabulary, can remain stable or even improve.

Cognitive functioning can be affected by various conditions, such as traumatic brain injury,
neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), mental health disorders (e.g., depression), and
developmental disorders (e.g., autism). These conditions can impair specific cognitive abilities, affecting
an individual's daily functioning.

NUTRITIONAL HABIT'S

In terms of nutrition habits, the difference between normal health and abnormal health is significant.
Normal health, which is achieved through healthy eating habits, involves consuming a balanced diet rich
in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and healthy fats. This type of diet supports
overall well-being, helps maintain a healthy weight, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart
disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

On the other hand, abnormal health resulting from poor nutrition habits involves consuming foods that
are high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt while lacking essential nutrients. This type of diet can lead to
various health issues such as obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, heart disease, stroke,
type-2 diabetes, osteoporosis, certain cancers, depression, and eating disorders.

Individuals with normal health based on good nutrition habits typically experience higher energy levels,
better mental clarity, improved complexion, and overall well-being. In contrast, those with abnormal
health due to poor nutrition may suffer from fatigue, stress-related issues, reduced work capacity,
weight problems (either overweight or underweight), dental problems like tooth decay, and an
increased risk of developing serious illnesses.

Maintaining normal health through proper nutrition involves making conscious choices to include a
variety of nutrient-dense foods in one’s diet while limiting the intake of processed foods high in
unhealthy ingredients. By adopting healthy eating habits and focusing on whole foods like fruits,
vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while reducing the consumption of sugary
snacks and beverages as well as fatty and salty processed foods can significantly impact overall health
positively.Individuals with normal health tend to have good energy levels, maintain a healthy weight,
and have a strong immune system. Their nutritional habits support overall health and well-being,
reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Adequate intake of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber contributes to their
overall vitality and longevity.

Abnormal Health: On the other hand, abnormal health refers to a state of imbalance or dysfunction in
one or more aspects of an individual’s health. When it comes to nutrition habits, abnormal health may
manifest in various ways:
Poor Diet Quality: Individuals with abnormal health often have poor diet quality characterized by
excessive consumption of unhealthy foods high in sugar, saturated fats, and processed ingredients. This
can lead to nutrient deficiencies and imbalances that negatively impact overall health.
Nutrient Deficiencies: Abnormal health may result from inadequate intake of essential nutrients due to
poor dietary choices or restrictive eating patterns. Nutrient deficiencies can weaken the immune system,
impair cognitive function, and increase the risk of various health conditions.
Overnutrition: In some cases, abnormal health may stem from overnutrition or excessive calorie intake
without adequate nutrient content. This can lead to obesity, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular issues,
and other chronic diseases associated with poor dietary habits.
Eating Disorders: Severe disturbances in eating behaviors such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa
represent extreme cases of abnormal health related to nutrition habits. These conditions can have
serious physical and psychological consequences if left untreated.
Individuals with abnormal health may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight fluctuations,
digestive problems, mood swings, and compromised immunity due to poor body functioning of the
systems while those with good health will not experience these symptoms
SEEKING HELP HABIT

Firstly, early detection and treatment of illnesses or injuries can lead to better outcomes and faster
recovery times. For instance, seeking medical attention for a persistent cough could lead to the
diagnosis and treatment of a potentially serious condition like lung cancer.

Secondly, seeking help can prevent complications and reduce the risk of further harm. For example,
untreated diabetes can lead to complications like nerve damage, kidney damage, and heart disease.
Seeking medical care can help manage the condition effectively and prevent these complications from
developing.

Thirdly, seeking help can improve an individual’s quality of life by alleviating symptoms and providing
support during the recovery process. For instance, physical therapy after an injury can help restore
mobility and strength, while counseling for mental health conditions can provide coping strategies and
emotional support.

Therefore Normal health, also known as homeostasis, refers to a state of optimal physical and mental
well-being where all body functions are performing efficiently. It is characterized by the maintenance of
a stable internal environment despite external influences. This includes maintaining a balance of bodily
fluids, regulating body temperature, and ensuring proper organ function.On the other hand, abnormal
health refers to any deviation from normal health. This can manifest in various ways, such as the
presence of diseases or injuries.

Abnormal health can be acute or chronic, meaning it can be a short-term condition or a long-term one
that requires ongoing management.The general conclusion of the essay on this topic would be that
normal health is essential for an individual’s overall well-being and quality of life. Maintaining normal
health involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate
sleep, and stress management. Abnormal health can lead to various negative consequences, including
impaired organ function, reduced productivity, and decreased quality of life. Preventing and treating
abnormal health conditions is crucial for preserving normal health and promoting longevity.
REFERENCE LIST

1. Conrad, P. (2005). The Medicalization of Society: On the Transformation of Human Conditions into
Treatable Disorder*. Johns Hopkins University Press.

2. Cockerham, W. C. (2013). Social Causes of Health and Disease(2nd ed.). Polity Press.

3. Link, B. G., & Phelan, J. C. (1995). Social conditions as fundamental causes of disease. *Journal of
Health and Social Behavior35, 80-94.

4. Turner, B. S. (2004). The New Medical Sociology: Social Forms of Health and Illness*. W. W. Norton &
Company.

5. Scambler, G., & Scambler, S. (Eds.). (2010). New Directions in the Sociology of Chronic and Disabling
Conditions: Assaults on the Lifeworld. Palgrave Macmillan.

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