Brain Health

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.” According to the WHO, depression is a common mental disorder, affecting more than 350 million people worldwide. Mental disorders also have a negative impact on business through significant disability, absenteeism, and productivity loss among working-age adults.

Stigma in society and fragmentation in the care system have resulted in inadequate identification, treatment, and community support for individuals struggling with mental illness. To challenge the stigma of mental illness head-on, highlight the biological nature of this condition, and afford it due parity to other illnesses, we refer to mental health as brain health. Health promotion, disease prevention, and disease management strategies can all be applied to promote brain health. There is increasing evidence of the positive impact of diet and physical activity on brain health, and ample evidence supporting the pivotal role of sleep in recharging the brain and enhancing memory has recently emerged. A range of cognitive and behavioral tools has become increasingly popular for brain health promotion. Critical to the management of individuals already experiencing brain health ailments are effective screening and rapid referral to quality treatment.

The Vitality Institute’s aim is to identify, evaluate, and promote evidence-based strategies for brain health promotion and destigmatization in the workplace, community, and healthcare settings.