The case for more effective relationships between psychiatry, religion and spirituality

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to highlight that the indifferent, undecided, and rarely positive attitude of psychiatrists toward the relationship between psychiatry, religion and spirituality stands in contradiction to extensive data. RECENT FINDINGS: The evidence reveals a largely positive relationship between religiosity/spirituality and different indices of health. Despite the attitude of psychiatrists in general, the neglect of this fact is difficult to justify. However, religious and spiritual beliefs are powerful forces and may impart harmful as well as beneficial effects. SUMMARY: Whatever disagreements there might be on definition and use, spirituality and religion are concerned with the core beliefs, values and experiences of human beings. A consideration of their relevance should, therefore, be a central part of clinical and academic psychiatry.

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