A need is something essential for our survival. In order to live, people need food, water, shelter, and energy. A want is something we would like to have but could live without. Many of us have all of our basic needs met and take these things for granted.
Maslow argued that the failure to have needs met at various stages of the hierarchy could lead to illness, particularly psychiatric illness or mental health issues. Individuals whose physiological needs are not met may die or become extremely ill. When safety needs are not met, posttraumatic stress may occur.
