heilbrigði

heilbrigði is the Icelandic word for health. In a broad sense, it refers to the state of physical, mental and social well-being, not merely the absence of illness or infirmity. Health is viewed as a dynamic condition that enables people to lead active lives, cope with stress, and participate fully in society. The World Health Organization’s definition is commonly echoed in Icelandic discourse, emphasizing functional capacity, resilience, and quality of life.

The concept of heilbrigði encompasses several interrelated components. Physical health includes fitness, nutrition, disease prevention, and the management of chronic conditions. Mental health covers emotional well-being, cognitive functioning, and protection against mental disorders. Social aspects involve relationships, support networks, housing, education, employment, and access to services. Health behaviours such as regular exercise, balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, and moderate alcohol use influence overall well-being. Preventive care, early detection, vaccination, screenings, and health literacy are important elements that support heilbrigði.

In Iceland, public health and healthcare are organized to promote universal access to services. The system is largely publicly funded, with primary care provided by general practitioners who act as gatekeepers to specialist and hospital care. Public health programs focus on maternal and child health, infectious disease control, vaccination, mental health, and health education. Efforts aim to reduce health inequalities and ensure equitable access across regions, including rural areas.

Measuring heilbrigði involves indicators such as life expectancy, healthy life expectancy, disease burden, and subjective well-being. Ongoing policy challenges include aging demographics, rising chronic disease, mental health needs, and ensuring sustainable financing and high-quality care for all.