[For an integrated approach to brain health].

Abstract

The brain is a vital organ that partly regulates our homeostasis and governs our interactions with the world (i.e. the physical, biological, and social environments). A healthy environment and a peaceful and equitable society ensure a normal brain development and promote individual (physical, mental, social, and spiritual) well-being. However, brain health is never certain and can be deteriorated, from conception until death, by exposure to multiple physical, chemical, biological, psychological, and social agents - the so-called exposome. From an integrated perspective, this article highlights the need to value, promote and protect brain health. The current challenge is to strengthen public awareness, education and research on brain health, in order to prevent neurological and psychiatric diseases.