What term refers to the overall state of well-being or total health?

The term that best describes the overall state of well-being or total health is "wellness." Wellness encompasses a holistic approach to health, integrating physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. It reflects not just the absence of illness but also the active pursuit of a fulfilling and balanced life. This concept recognizes that health is multidimensional and involves various aspects of an individual's life, promoting a proactive approach to achieving optimal health and quality of life.

While the term "health" often refers to the absence of illness or disease, "wellness" goes further by emphasizing the positive aspects and active maintenance of health. "Fitness" generally relates specifically to physical condition and performance, while "vitality" focuses more on energy and liveliness, which are components of well-being but do not encompass the broader concept of overall health. Thus, wellness is the most comprehensive term that accurately captures the idea of total health and well-being.