How is illness defined in the provided content?

Illness is defined as the loss of physical or mental health. This encompasses a range of conditions that disrupt a person's overall well-being and can manifest through various symptoms and impairments. The definition recognizes that illness can affect individuals both physically and mentally, illustrating that health is multifaceted.

In understanding illness through this lens, it is not limited to an absence of disease, but rather includes the broader impacts that affect an individual’s functioning and quality of life. This comprehensive view acknowledges that both physical ailments and mental health challenges can lead to a detrimental state, stressing the importance of holistic health care approaches.

Other options present more limited or specific interpretations of illness. Total wellness does not align with the concept of illness, as it suggests the absence of any health issues. Temporary conditions tied to stress may not encompass the broader, often chronic aspect of illness. Defining illness solely as a mental health issue ignores the significant physical components that can also contribute to an individual's overall health status. Thus, the broad definition provided is essential for a comprehensive understanding of what constitutes illness in health care.