Britain is grappling with a silent health emergency that conventional medicine is struggling to address, according to a leading NHS doctor. Dr Amos Ogunkoya, an experienced general practitioner, warns that millions of Britons are caught in a concerning state of being "unwell but not ill" - functional enough to work but fundamentally unhealthy.
The Hidden Health Epidemic
In an exclusive interview, Dr Ogunkoya reveals that traditional healthcare systems are failing to tackle the root causes of modern health complaints. "We're seeing people who can still go to work, still function, but they're tired, they're stressed, they're anxious, they're not sleeping properly," he explains.
This grey area between clinical illness and genuine wellness represents what the doctor describes as "the next healthcare frontier" - one that requires a fundamental shift in how we approach health and wellbeing.
Beyond Traditional Medicine
Dr Ogunkoya's concerns stem from his daily experiences in clinical practice, where he observes patients presenting with symptoms that don't fit neatly into conventional diagnostic categories. These individuals often receive medication for specific symptoms but rarely address the underlying lifestyle factors causing their health issues.
The key problems identified include:
- Chronic stress and burnout becoming normalised
- Poor sleep quality affecting cognitive function and mood
- Sedentary lifestyles despite awareness of exercise benefits
- Nutritional deficiencies in otherwise adequate diets
- Social isolation and lack of community connection
A New Approach to Healthcare
Through his "Well Enough" podcast and clinical work, Dr Ogunkoya advocates for a more holistic approach to health. He emphasises that true wellness extends beyond the absence of disease to encompass mental, physical and social wellbeing.
"We need to move from a reactive healthcare system to a proactive wellness culture," he argues. This involves empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to take control of their health before problems escalate into diagnosable conditions.
The Path Forward
The solution, according to Dr Ogunkoya, lies in integrating preventive measures into daily life and healthcare practice. This includes better stress management techniques, improved sleep hygiene, regular physical activity tailored to individual needs, and fostering stronger social connections.
As Britain faces increasing pressure on its healthcare services, addressing this wellness crisis could be crucial for reducing the long-term burden on the NHS while improving quality of life for millions.
Dr Ogunkoya's work represents a growing movement among healthcare professionals calling for a fundamental rethinking of how we define and pursue health in modern Britain.
