Published online Sep 16, 2021. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i26.7620
Peer-review started: February 25, 2021
First decision: May 26, 2021
Revised: April 23, 2021
Accepted: July 23, 2021
Article in press: July 23, 2021
Published online: September 16, 2021
Processing time: 196 Days and 15.3 Hours
Research in the field of “Spirituality and Health” has been growing, with spirituality/religiousness (S/R) being consistently related to both physical and mental health. The objective of this article is to provide an updated review of the current scientific evidence on the relationship between S/R and mental health, highlighting the most important studies. As a secondary objective, the mechanisms that explain this relationship and the interventions that utilize this information in treating mental disorders will be discussed. The findings reveal a large body of evidence across numerous psychiatric disorders. Although solid evidence is now available for depression, suicidality, and substance use, other diagnosis, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, psychosis, and anxiety, have also shown promising results. The effects of S/R on mental health are likely bidirectional, and the manner in which religious beliefs are used to cope with distress (i.e. negative and positive), may affect mental health outcomes. Despite these findings, the mechanisms that explain these associations and the role of S/R interventions need further study. Concerning clinical practice, mental health providers should ask patients about S/R that are important in their lives to provide holistic and patient-centered care.
Core Tip: The number of studies assessing spirituality/religiousness (S/R) and mental health has been increasing over the past several decades, resulting now in a large body of evidence suggesting an impact of S/R. However, there remain many gaps in the literature that need filling in this area. There are numerous practical clinical applications that psychiatrists and other mental health professionals should consider implementing in clinical care. This will lead to a more holistic and patient-centered form of mental health care.