Clinical Implications of Research on Religion, Spirituality, and Mental Health

Abstract

The relation between religion and (or) spirituality (RS), and mental health has shown generally positive associations; however, it is a complex and often emotion-laden field of study. We attempt to examine potential mechanisms that have been proposed as mediators for the RS and mental health relation. We also examine more philosophical areas including patient and physician opinions about inclusion of RS in patient care, and ethical issues that may arise. We review suggested guidelines for sensitive patient inquiry, and opportunities and challenges for education of psychiatrists and trainees. We also study practical ways to incorporate psychospiritual interventions into patient treatment, with specific reference to more common spiritual issues such as forgiveness, gratitude, and altruism.

Religiosity, Spirituality, and Mental Health in Portugal: A call for a conceptualisation, relationship, and guidelines for integration (a theoretical review)

“…Therefore, research and society in general, have been witnessing a growing movement of its usage, shying away from the institutionalization of their beliefs (religion) toward its individualization. Therefore more and more individuals identify themselves as being "spiritual, but not religious" (Zinnbauer et al, 1999;Miller, 2003;Saucier & Skrzypińska, 2006;Winslow & Wehtje-Winslow, 2007;Baetz & Toews 2009;Büssing, 2010), i.e. those who are "committed to the spiritual dimension of life, but not be identified with any specific religion" (Miller, 2003:150).…”

“…Specifically, it seems that religious and spiritual people tend to present better indicators of physical and psychological well-being, in that they present lower rates of physical illnesses and psychological disorders, such as depression, suicide, anxiety, substance abuse, marital problems (Koenig, 2000(Koenig, , 2001Cohen & Koenig, 2004;Büssing et al, 2009;Johansen, 2010;Koenig, 2012). Also, they seemed to present a greater sense of social support (Fallot, 1998;Koenig, 2000Koenig, , 2001Koenig, , 2012Baetz & Toews, 2009); and experiencing much more positive emotions and acts, such as happiness, hope, optimism, meaning and purpose, altruism, gratitude and forgiveness (Hackney & Sanders, 2003;Cohen & Koenig, 2004;Baetz & Toews, 2009;Rosmarin, Krumrei & Pargament, 2010;Koenig, 2012). These positive connections seem to be closely linked to lifestyle habits, social support and coping strategies (e.g.…”

“…There also seems to be a positive association between the onset and/or worsening of psychopathological symptoms and increased importance of religion and spirituality in the life of many patients/clients (Baetz & Toews, 2009;Gockel, 2011). Other studies indicate that, in psychological distress and suffering, religious clients tend to recover faster with better outcomes when mental health professionals seek the integration of their clients' religious beliefs and practices (Fallot, 1998;AukstMargetić & Margetić, 2005;Curlin et al, 2007;Baetz & Toews, 2009).…”

The Prevalence of Psychosomatic Symptoms and Spirituality Levels among University Students in South Jordan

“…Some factors that could influence the severity of the psychosomatic symptoms, include level of spirituality and support from the academic institution [9]. Evidences based on literature indicate that the prevalence of mental health status among students is influenced by spirituality [9] [10] [11] [12].…”

“…Evidences based on literature indicate that the prevalence of mental health status among students is influenced by spirituality [9] [10] [11] [12].…”