Religion and Spirituality What Is It?

Religiousness can be defined as participation in an institutionalized doctrine/theological system or set of beliefs and practices while spirituality is framed as an individual pursuit of meaning outside the world of immediate experience or understanding one’s self as part of a larger spiritual force. Religion can also be included as an expression of spirituality (Hodge, 2004).

Research has consistently identified a generally positive association between spirituality (religion is included as an expression of spirituality) and various dimensions of mental health to include “increased adaptation to bereavement, self esteem, social support, life satisfaction and happiness” but due to the negative views of some people, the positive benefits between spirituality and mental health is not always experienced by everyone. You see, for some people, having a mental illness was seen as demonic or a punishment from God. For others, spirituality is a crutch, a way out, and harmful. Unfortunately both views have pre-vented many people from getting the help that they need.

Thankfully, we now understand that people with mental illness are not demon-possessed or being punished by God. And spiritual warfare and demonic possessions are not the same as a mental illness. Therapists and Doctors know that they do not have to fear religion/spirituality or try to talk people out of their faith.

Mental illness is a medical condition that impacts a person’s thinking, feeling, or mood and may affect his or her ability to relate to others and function daily. Mental illnesses are real and are treatable. (IGBATMHO)