BUILDING CONFIDENCE

I believe that many in the medical profession are aware that their patients have a spiritual side to their nature, but most don’t believe that it should be part of their work to address it. They may not personally be very spiritual people and don’t believe it has a place in the treatment they give their patients. I’m hoping that things are changing.

Harold G. Koenig M.D. is recognized worldwide for his groundbreaking work in medical science and religious faith. He is a psychiatrist who pioneered research into the effects of religion on health. In his book, Faith & Mental Health, he wrote:

“Religion influences mental health by directing one’s attention outside of the self. Every major world religious leader has instructed his followers to support and care for one another: Moses, Jesus, the Buddha, Hindu holy men, and Mohammed all emphasized this teaching as a key to happiness and spiritual progress. Such teachings promote forgiveness, mercy, kindness, compassion, and generosity toward others

“Are the mental health benefits of religion restricted to only certain types of religion? Is Christianity more effective in preventing mental problems or reducing their severity than say Judaism or Islam or Buddhism? The information we have suggests that devout, sensible religious practices typically encouraged within each of the major world religions usually correlate with better mental health.”

Faith is important for our mental health. As members of Alcoholics Anonymous have found, faith in someone greater than ourselves can bring us a sense of well-being that isn’t available elsewhere. Not with medication or endless counselling. Faith can help us develop the following:

  • A sense of hope
  • A reason for living
  • Strength to cope with hardships
  • Confidence
  • Relief from anxiety, stress, and fear
  • Ability to make sense of life
  • Comfort during trials
  • A source of peace and joy
  • Strength to forgive ourselves and others
  • Knowledge of being loved

It is abundantly clear that religious faith providing the above is important to everyone’s mental well-being. But for those battling mental illness, I would say it’s vitally important. I know that from my own experience and from what I have witnessed in those to whom I have given support.

When I talk about “spiritual mental health support,” for me it has always been about religious faith. Because that’s what brought me from a mental hospital for nine months to gradually becoming a leader who helps those like me—those with mental health challenges—to find wellness.

marja