Spirituality and Mental Health

The relationship between spirituality and psychology has historically been a negative one. In the scope of religion, science and faith were always thought to contradict each other. Now, however, there is growing research on the positive association between these two factors. Some studies even reveal that religious people are healthier both physically and mentally. Since both spirituality and religion can bring a sense of comfort, people can find strength in their beliefs to cope with stressful situations. It seems that having a belief system can go a long way in improving one’s mental health and wellbeing.

Before mental disorders were diagnosed, it was common for someone with depression to be told to take their concerns to their place of worship or to have more faith in order to feel better. This view is harmful because it associates mental disorders as a problem with faith rather than a treatable condition. It’s more that religion can be helpful for those whose spiritual beliefs and practices serve as an important coping tool for recovery. Mental illness is not a choice, and recovery looks different for every person.

There are a wide range of spiritual practices that can improve your mental health, such as:

• Spending time in deep meditation, prayers, or reflection
• Participating in symbolic practices, rituals, and other means of worship
• Following traditions such as Tai Chi, yoga, and other disciplined practices
• Creativity in the form of painting, cooking, sculpturing, gardening, and other similar activities

Practicing mindfulness, or being present, can help decrease stress and anxiety, calming a person’s mind. This can be achieved through meditation and remembering to live in the moment. Many spiritual practices are derived from various religions across the world. However, it is common for many mental health treatments and therapies to have a spiritual aspect that is not specific to any religion.

Because spirituality and religion incorporate healthy practices that are good for the body and mind, there are many benefits to our mental health. First, it helps improve our self-esteem and confidence by giving us feelings of empowerment and helping us accept others regardless of their spiritual beliefs. We can build a sense of community with others and support them through spiritual practices. Having a strong support system is always good for mental health. Furthermore, spiritual teachings emphasize the need for doing the right thing. They teach forgiveness, gratitude, and compassion, which help people cope with challenging situations.

Research shows that individuals have better mental health if they belong to a particular community or have religious beliefs. Spirituality can help people in many ways. First and foremost, spirituality or religion can help people find meaning in their lives which is instrumental in improving one’s mental health. The fact that hospitals employ spiritual advisors to counsel patients demonstrates how essential spirituality is to people’s health and wellbeing.

Reference
Frye, D. (2020). Spirituality and mental health. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/return-stillness/202001/spirituality-and-mental-health