The influence of spirituality on mental health

Abstract

Historically, science and spirituality were considered distinct areas, however, following the expansion of the concept of health by the World Health Organization (WHO), as being “the state of complete physical, mental and social well-being” and not simply the “absence of illness”, the phenomenon of spirituality began to be considered as an influencer on people's quality of life. Objectives: contextualize mental illness throughout the history of humanity and differentiate the concept of spirituality from religion. Methodology: The methodology adopted for this work is based on bibliographic research of scientific articles and periodicals. Results and discussions: Why study spirituality and religiosity? According to LUKOFF and collaborators “The religious and spiritual dimensions of culture are among the most important factors that structure human beliefs, values, behaviors and patterns of illness, that is, the experience. More and more research suggests that religiosity and spirituality are important factors for people who suffer or are ill. Final considerations: There is evidence that people with developed spirituality become healthier, and when they get sick, they develop less depression and recover more quickly. For many people, spirituality is a source of comfort, well-being, security, meaning, ideal and strength. Spirituality can be understood as a set of mental processes that bring vitality and meaning to life events. It is the human propensity for interest for others and for yourself. It meets the need to find reason and fulfillment in life, as well as the need for hope and will to live well and happily.