61. Health includes the body, the mind and the soul.

We often begin an encounter with a friend or ask a caller on the phone, "How are you?" Generally, the respondent answers with a "good" or a "fine" and asks you the same question, with usually the same result. When we ask or answer that question we invariable are thinking about our physical well-being. We generally don't want to get into small complaints like an aching muscle, a sore heel, or a runny nose. We seldom think of our mental or spiritual health when we are asked the "How are you?" question. 

Despite our significant regard for our physical health, we also need to know that we need to maintain our mental and spiritual health as well. Most seniors will all possess some ailments that are related to ageing. Just as an old car regularly needs new tires, an oil change and an occasional tuneup, so does the human body. We are not too reluctant to discuss our blood pressure, cholesterol levels or arthritis, but we almost never venture into either of the other two areas. 

It is not that we need to report on our mental health to others, but it is just as important to take precautions to address our mental well being. A lot of people suffer from societal or personal stresses that can play a significant role in one's mental outlook on life. Some current data shows:

• In any given year, 1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental health problem or illness.
• Approximately 8% of adults will experience major depression at some time in their lives.
• By age 40, about 50% of the population will have or have had a mental illness.

Mental illnesses have been steadily increasing in Canada every year!

While most people will not choose to discuss or share the state of their mental health, even fewer will probably want to share their spiritual health. No matter where a person places themselves upon the spiritual continuum, spiritual wellness is also very important when we are examining our health. So I repeat, "How are you today?"